Uzbekistan has introduced a comprehensive new policy framework aimed at strengthening the role of intellectual property (IP) in the national economy and accelerating the adoption of modern digital and information technologies. The initiative sets ambitious development targets, introduces major digital reforms, expands professional capacity, and enhances national mechanisms for innovation, commercialization, and enforcement.

The policy outlines a multi-year program to significantly increase the creation, registration, and protection of IP assets, building a stronger foundation for an innovation-driven economy.

 

Strategic Development Goals for the IP Sector

 

The national plan sets forward-looking benchmarks for the coming years, including:

Expansion of Registered IP Assets

Uzbekistan aims to substantially increase the number of registered IP objects across the country, as well as the number of geographical indications (GIs). The intention is to promote national brands, strengthen regional product reputation, and support local producers.

Acceleration of IP Registration Procedures

Examination timelines for IP applications are expected to be reduced by half through the integration of artificial intelligence technologies and a full transition to electronic interagency document circulation. Faster processing is intended to make the registration system more efficient and accessible to innovators, entrepreneurs, and research institutions.

Growth of Professional Expertise

The capacity of the domestic IP profession will be expanded through an increase in the number of patent attorneys and by supporting advanced international training for specialists working in the field.

 

Modernization of Public IP Services

 

The government plans a comprehensive transformation of public services related to intellectual property. Efforts include:

• simplifying administrative procedures and broadening the use of digital and AI technologies;
• ensuring that state services are accompanied by legal and methodological guidance;
• reducing bureaucratic barriers by shifting more services to composite and proactive formats;
• strengthening cooperation with businesses and citizens in combating counterfeit products.

 

Introduction of a Unified Digital IP Portal

 

A new unified digital platform for intellectual property protection will be launched, consolidating several existing systems into a single online resource. The portal will enable users to:

• submit inquiries and track applications through AI-assisted examination processes;
• conclude IP-related agreements online;
• access methodological materials and receive real-time guidance;
• consult public information on counterfeit goods and infringing websites.

This centralization aims to create a more transparent, user-friendly, and efficiently managed IP infrastructure.

 

New Compliance Mechanisms and Incentives

 

As part of the broader reform, several sector-specific compliance and incentive mechanisms will be introduced:

IP Rights Verification in Regulated Sectors

Before authorizing certain imports and production activities such as biologically active substances authorities will verify compliance with trademark and industrial design rights through the new IP portal.

Integration of IP Compliance into Business Ratings

Entrepreneurship sustainability ratings will now take into account whether a company has faced sanctions for IP infringements. Conversely, ownership of registered trademarks and service marks will positively contribute to scoring.

Digital Issuance of IP Protection Document Duplicates

Duplicate certificates and patents will be issued electronically through a paid online service, improving convenience and efficiency.

 

Support for Innovation, Research, and Commercialization

 

To strengthen the innovation ecosystem, the policy envisions:

• creating Technology and Innovation Support Centers in universities, research institutions, and technoparks;
• introducing modern educational programs and involving international experts in IP management;
• promoting cooperation with foreign partners to support national brand development;
• offering methodological assistance to regional organizations working with inventors and entrepreneurs.

A national badge recognizing contributions to the development of intellectual property will also be introduced.

 

IP as an Economic Asset: Collateral and Competitions

 

A key element of the reform is treating IP as a tangible economic asset:

• IP rights may be used as collateral to secure loans, with the Ministry of Justice maintaining a register of such pledges;
• An annual national competition will celebrate the best inventions, utility models, industrial designs, software, databases, and breeding achievements, with monetary awards provided through the national innovation fund.

These measures aim to stimulate commercialization, encourage innovators, and increase the circulation of research results in the marketplace.

 

Promotion of Geographical Indications and National Brands

 

A dedicated non-governmental organization will be established to support the development and promotion of geographical indications, including internationally. Additional measures include:

• organizing annual festivals dedicated to GIs;
• supporting the participation of Uzbek producers in foreign exhibitions and fairs;
• offering methodological and legal assistance to artisans and entrepreneurs involved in GI-related production.

The reforms also provide greater flexibility for patent attorneys to participate in IP-related disputes in various courts.

 

Strengthening Enforcement and International Cooperation

 

To enhance enforcement against online infringement, the responsible authorities will regularly submit information regarding infringing websites to global IP monitoring platforms.

The policy also highlights increased international cooperation, including attracting foreign experts, implementing joint educational programs, and seeking international grant funding to support national IP initiatives.

 

Conclusion

 

Uzbekistan’s new IP policy marks a decisive step toward building a modern, innovation-driven economy. Through ambitious targets, technological modernization, professional development, strengthened enforcement mechanisms, and international collaboration, the country aims to:

• expand the economic contribution of intellectual property,
• improve the business and investment environment,
• support creators and innovators,
• and strengthen national competitiveness in global markets.

This comprehensive reform framework positions Uzbekistan as an emerging regional leader in intellectual property development and management.