Uzbekistan is reforming the financing and management of the culture and arts sector by introducing a results-oriented funding model, expanding public-private partnerships (PPP) and strengthening private sector participation.

The reform reflects a broader shift toward commercialization, efficiency and digitalization of the cultural ecosystem.

Transition to performance-based financing

A key feature of the reform is the introduction of a results-based financing system.

Starting from 1 July 2026, performance management will be strengthened through:

• mandatory annual KPIs for heads of cultural departments;
• evaluation-based incentives or reassessment of positions;
• ranking of cultural institutions based on performance indicators.

Priority is given to metrics such as:

• public engagement in cultural activities;
• preservation and promotion of national cultural values.

Centralization of funding flows

From 1 January 2027, a new financing model will be introduced:

• funding of cultural institutions will be centralized through the republican budget;
• allocations will be administered through the Ministry of Culture and its territorial bodies.

This is intended to improve efficiency and transparency in budget utilization.

Expansion of PPP and private sector participation

The reform significantly expands the role of private investors:

• a simplified PPP regime is introduced (on an experimental basis until 1 January 2030) for projects up to USD 1 million;
• cultural facilities may be transferred to private partners under PPP structures;
• private partners will operate under performance-based KPIs.

In addition, pilot cultural cluster projects (“Madaniyat mehmonxonasi”) will be implemented across regions starting from 1 July 2026.

New grant and incentive mechanisms

From 1 August 2026, a structured grant system will be introduced to support:

• theatre, music, dance, cinema and animation;
• cultural education and creative industries;
• startups and creative projects;
• AI, innovation and digitalization in culture.

A dedicated digital platform will be used to manage and publish grant-supported projects.

Support measures for private sector

Additional incentives include:

• subsidies and compensation mechanisms for financing cultural projects;
• partial reimbursement of interest expenses on loans;
• coverage of up to 50% of utility costs for certain private cultural initiatives (up to 5 years);
• allocation of land plots through online auctions for cultural projects.

These measures are aimed at lowering entry barriers for private investors.

Transformation of cultural infrastructure

The reform also introduces:

• restructuring and optimization of underperforming cultural centers;
• transfer of cultural institutions to local government (hokimiyat) management;
• development of centers promoting intangible cultural heritage, crafts and creative industries.

Education and talent development

Changes will also affect the education system:

• modernization of specialized schools and colleges in arts and culture;
• introduction of integrated educational formats (e.g., “2+2” models);
• alignment of education programs with sector needs.

Digitalization and AI integration

The reform places emphasis on digital transformation:

• creation of databases of national cultural content;
• use of AI platforms for preservation and promotion of culture;
• implementation of digital management systems within the sector.

Implications

The reform signals a structural shift:

• culture becomes investment-driven, not only state-funded;
• private sector gains access to new PPP and grant mechanisms;
• governance becomes performance-based;
• digitalization and AI become integral to cultural policy.

This approach is expected to improve efficiency, expand access to cultural services and create new opportunities for creative industries.

The document entered into force on 23 April 2026.

Uzbekistan has adopted a new Law on Limited Liability Companies, introducing a significantly updated corporate governance framework and strengthening investor protection mechanisms.

The reform modernizes the regulation of LLCs, aligning key elements with international corporate governance standards and addressing long-standing gaps in practice.

Key Legal Developments

Enhanced corporate governance framework

The Law formalizes the role of the supervisory board in LLCs, including its powers, composition and procedures for appointment. It also explicitly allows for remote decision-making, including absentee voting, reflecting modern governance practices.

Introduction of fiduciary duties

For the first time at a legislative level, fiduciary obligations are clearly defined for members of the supervisory board and executive bodies. This introduces a higher standard of conduct, including duties of care and loyalty, and increases potential liability exposure for management.

Minority shareholder protections

The Law strengthens the position of minority participants by:

• enabling the establishment of internal committees;
• allowing the initiation of independent audits;
• enhancing oversight over company management.

These mechanisms are expected to improve transparency and internal accountability.

Regulation of affiliated party transactions

Clearer rules are introduced for affiliated persons and related-party transactions, addressing a key risk area in corporate structures and improving safeguards against conflicts of interest.

Enforcement of capital contribution obligations

Participants who fail to fully contribute their share in the charter capital may now be excluded through court proceedings, reinforcing capital discipline and protecting other participants.

Optional centralization of capital records

LLCs are permitted to transfer the accounting of charter capital to the Central Securities Depository on a contractual basis is an option that may improve transparency and reliability of ownership records.

Practical Implications for Businesses

The new Law will require companies and investors to reassess existing structures and documentation:

• Charters (constitutional documents) should be reviewed and potentially updated;
• Governance models (including the introduction of a supervisory board) should be reconsidered;
• Shareholder and joint venture agreements may need alignment with new rules;
• Internal policies on conflicts of interest and related-party transactions should be strengthened;
• Businesses should monitor capital contribution compliance more closely.

Overall, the reform increases both compliance expectations and governance accountability.

Entry into Force

The Law will enter into force on 22 July 2026.

This reform represents a significant step toward improving corporate governance and investor confidence in Uzbekistan. While it introduces additional compliance considerations, it also provides clearer rules and stronger protections for market participants.

Uzbekistan is introducing a unified QR code system for payments, aimed at simplifying cashless transactions and enabling interoperability across banks and payment service providers.

The framework is designed to accelerate digital payments, reduce the shadow economy and create a more integrated payment ecosystem.

Single QR code for all payment providers

The key feature of the reform is the introduction of a unified QR code standard allowing:

• customers to pay using any banking or payment application;
• seamless interaction between different payment systems;
• elimination of fragmentation in QR-based payments.

The system is built to ensure interoperability across all market participants.

Mandatory implementation across businesses

The rollout of the unified QR code forms part of a broader policy:

• all businesses in trade and services are expected to accept payments via the unified QR system;
• non-use of the system may be treated as a violation of trading rules.

This positions the QR code as a standard payment acceptance tool across the economy.

Static and dynamic QR codes

The framework distinguishes between two types of QR codes:

• static QR codes – linked to fixed payment details;
• dynamic QR codes – generated per transaction, including amount and parameters.

Dynamic QR codes:

• include a unique identifier;
• have a limited validity period;
• enhance transaction security and traceability.

Role of banks and payment providers

Banks acting as acquirers are responsible for:

• issuing QR codes to merchants;
• ensuring secure and uninterrupted payment processing;
• providing devices or solutions for generating dynamic QR codes.

Payment service providers must:

• integrate QR scanning functionality into mobile applications;
• ensure user-friendly payment interfaces.

User functionality and transparency

Mobile applications must provide:

• automatic population of payment details;
• display of payment amount and applicable fees;
• confirmation of transactions;
• access to transaction history and real-time receipts.

In addition, users must have access to:

• customer support services;
• complaint submission and tracking tools.

System operator and infrastructure

A dedicated QR system operator is responsible for:

• managing the infrastructure;
• ensuring real-time data exchange between participants;
• processing clearing information;
• monitoring transactions and risks.

The system also includes:

• a unified registry of QR identifiers;
• real-time transaction monitoring and alerts.

Compliance and security requirements

The framework imposes strict requirements on participants:

• compliance with AML/CFT rules;
• adherence to cybersecurity and data protection standards;
• secure processing and storage of transaction data.

The Central Bank retains supervisory authority over the system.

Implications

The introduction of a unified QR code system has several implications:

• businesses gain a standardized and widely accepted payment method;
• consumers benefit from flexibility and ease of use;
• banks and fintechs operate within an integrated ecosystem;
• regulators gain better visibility over transactions.

The reform is expected to significantly expand cashless payments and strengthen financial transparency across the economy.

Uzbekistan is establishing a dedicated crypto mining zone in Karakalpakstan, creating a regulated environment for mining operations supported by renewable energy and long-term tax incentives.

The initiative is aimed at attracting investment, developing digital infrastructure and expanding the country’s crypto ecosystem.

Creation of a specialized mining zone

A new special mining zone “Besqala Mining Valley” is being created with a dedicated управляющая структура responsible for:

• registration and administration of residents;
• coordination with regulators;
• facilitation of mining activity approvals.

Entities must obtain resident status and regulatory permission to operate within the zone.

Access to energy and infrastructure

Residents are granted access to:

• the unified national electricity system;
• renewable energy sources, including solar, wind and hydrogen-based energy;
• dedicated infrastructure for large-scale mining operations.

The framework explicitly promotes the use of alternative energy sources for mining activities.

Crypto operations and monetization

Mining operators are allowed to:

• sell mined crypto-assets through licensed domestic exchanges or foreign platforms;
• enter into direct agreements for disposal of crypto-assets;
• exchange mined assets into other liquid crypto-assets.

At the same time, regulatory oversight remains in place to ensure compliance with national crypto regulations.

Innovative use of excess energy

The framework allows:

• use of thermal energy generated from mining for agricultural purposes, including greenhouse operations.

This introduces an efficiency model linking digital infrastructure with the agricultural sector.

Tax incentives and investment appeal

To стимулировать investment:

• income from mining activities is exempt from taxes and mandatory payments until 1 January 2035.

This long-term incentive significantly enhances the attractiveness of the zone for investors and operators.

Regulatory and compliance requirements

The regime includes strict compliance conditions:

• only registered legal entities may participate;
• activities must be conducted at designated locations;
• compliance with AML/CFT requirements is mandatory;
• individuals with certain risk profiles are restricted from participation.

In addition:

• anonymous mining and anonymous crypto-assets are prohibited;
• full transparency of operations and ownership is required.

Operational and technical requirements

Mining activities must meet:

• technical and safety standards;
• energy consumption monitoring and separate metering;
• requirements for connection to power infrastructure.

Electricity usage is subject to specific tariff structures, particularly where renewable energy or grid capacity is involved.

Implications

The creation of the mining zone has several implications:

• crypto businesses gain access to a regulated and incentivized environment;
• investors benefit from long-term tax exemptions and infrastructure support;
• the energy sector sees increased integration with digital industries;
• regulators maintain control through licensing and compliance mechanisms.

The creation of “Besqala Mining Valley” positions the country as a potential regional hub for compliant and energy-efficient mining operations.

Uzbekistan is introducing a dedicated regulatory framework for stablecoins, establishing a controlled environment for testing and deploying token-based payment solutions.

The new regime is designed to support fintech innovation while maintaining financial stability and regulatory oversight.

Regulatory sandbox for stablecoins

The framework operates as a special legal regime (regulatory sandbox) allowing selected participants to implement pilot projects involving:

• issuance of stablecoins backed by fiat currencies;
• use of stablecoins as a means of payment within Uzbekistan;
• cross-border transfers and settlements;
• development of payment systems based on distributed ledger technology (DLT).

Participation is limited to registered entities approved by the authorized body and subject to ongoing supervision.

Strict eligibility and structural limitations

The regulation introduces clear boundaries on permissible token models.

Within the special regime, it is prohibited to issue:

• algorithmic stablecoins;
• privacy-enhancing (anonymous) tokens;
• stablecoins backed by crypto-assets.

Only fiat-backed structures are allowed, ensuring alignment with monetary policy and financial stability objectives.

Full reserve requirement

Stablecoins must be fully backed by funds:

• reserves must be held in national or foreign currency;
• funds must be placed on a segregated account at the Central Bank;
• reserves must at all times match or exceed the total value of tokens in circulation.

Importantly:

• reserves cannot be used for other obligations of the issuer;
• borrowed or leveraged funds cannot be used as backing.

This establishes a strict 1:1 reserve model.

Registration and supervision of participants

Entities must undergo a formal registration process to participate in the regime.

The framework provides for:

• inclusion in a public register of participants;
• ongoing monitoring by the authorized body;
• mandatory reporting obligations.

Participants may operate without additional licensing for crypto activities within the sandbox, subject to compliance with the regime’s conditions.

Governance and risk controls

The regulation imposes robust governance requirements:

• disclosure through a White Paper;
• identification of ultimate beneficial owners;
• restrictions on individuals with criminal or high-risk backgrounds.

In addition, projects must:

• define operational limits (clients, transaction volumes, risks);
• implement mechanisms for dispute resolution and customer protection;
• ensure transparency of business models and financial flows.

Cybersecurity and operational resilience

A strong emphasis is placed on IT and cybersecurity requirements.

Participants must:

• implement multi-factor authentication and secure key management;
• ensure system resilience and data protection;
• maintain backup and recovery systems;
• appoint responsible officers for information security.

Incidents affecting token issuance or circulation must be reported within strict timelines to regulators.

Pilot duration and regulatory outcome

Pilot projects are initially approved for 12 months, with possible extensions.

However:

• the total duration cannot exceed 3 years;
• based on results, authorities may: integrate the model into permanent legislation; or terminate the project.

This confirms the sandbox nature of the regime as a policy-testing tool.

Implications

The framework creates a structured entry point into the digital asset space:

• fintech companies gain access to a regulated testing environment;
• investors benefit from clearer safeguards and transparency;
• regulators retain tight control over risks and systemic impact;
• the market moves toward compliant, fiat-backed tokenization models.

Uzbekistan is introducing a new framework aimed at reducing unlawful interference in business activities by digitalizing inspection procedures and increasing transparency of interactions between businesses and state authorities.

The reform combines digital tools, stricter procedural rules and enhanced accountability mechanisms for public officials.

Launch of unified digital control system

A central element of the reform is the launch of the “Yagona davlat nazorati” information system and its mobile application starting from 1 July 2026.

The system will enable:

• real-time access to information about officials interacting with businesses;
• direct communication with authorities via digital channels;
• evaluation of actions of public officials;
• automated identification of unauthorized inspections.

As reflected in the document, the system expands existing functionality and introduces new control mechanisms over inspection activities.

Digitalization of inspections and elimination of paper procedures

From 1 August 2026, inspections will be fully digitalized:

• mandatory use of the mobile application by officials;
• abolition of paper-based inspection authorizations;
• introduction of electronic identification for inspection rights.

Inspections must be registered through:

• scanning a QR code assigned to the business; or
• use of personal identification data.

If a check is not properly registered in the system, it is considered unauthorized.

New rules for interactions (“dialogue”) with businesses

The reform introduces a clear distinction between:

• formal inspections; and
• informal interactions (“dialogue”).

Any visit or contact with a business that is not a formal inspection is classified as dialogue.

Key requirement:

• all such interactions must be recorded in the system;
• failure to record them may trigger disciplinary investigations.

This creates transparency even outside formal inspection procedures.

Enhanced control and accountability of officials

The framework introduces stricter oversight mechanisms:

• automatic detection of violations in inspection procedures;
• monitoring of officials’ conduct;
• sanctions for repeated or unjustified interactions with businesses.

According to the document, officials engaging in repeated unjustified interactions may face:

• internal investigations;
• suspension from inspection activities.

Business protection mechanisms

The reform strengthens safeguards for businesses:

• entrepreneurs may refuse access to officials whose inspections are not registered in the system;
• all inspections must be traceable and digitally recorded;
• electronic records replace traditional inspection logs.

The introduction of the “Business Protection” QR code further ensures that all control activities are properly authorized and monitored.

Integration and automation

The system will integrate:

• various government databases;
• risk management tools;
• monitoring of inspection frequency and patterns.

Implications

The reform introduces significant changes for both businesses and regulators:

• businesses gain stronger protection against unlawful inspections;
• regulators operate under stricter procedural control;
• compliance becomes digital, with reduced reliance on manual processes;
• transparency increases across all interactions between state and business.

The reform represents a shift toward a more structured and predictable business environment.

Uzbekistan is introducing a new framework for applying financial penalties to businesses, aimed at reducing regulatory burden, improving enforcement efficiency and strengthening judicial oversight.

The reform combines procedural unification, incentives for voluntary compliance and digitalization of penalty administration.

Unified approach to financial penalties

A central objective of the reform is to standardize how financial penalties are imposed and enforced across regulatory bodies.

This includes:

• clearer allocation of powers between supervisory authorities and courts;
• reduction of administrative inconsistencies;
• increased legal certainty for businesses.

The reform is designed to lower compliance costs while maintaining enforcement effectiveness.

Incentives for voluntary compliance

A key innovation is the introduction of mechanisms encouraging businesses to voluntarily settle penalties.

From 1 October 2026, companies may choose between:

• payment of 50% of the fine within one month, resulting in full discharge of the remaining amount;
• payment in installments over six months, with automatic application of the installment regime upon initial payment.

This approach shifts enforcement toward incentivized compliance rather than purely punitive measures.

Digitalization of penalty procedures

The reform introduces a fully digital system for managing financial penalties.

From 1 January 2027:

• an electronic register of financial penalties will be launched;
• all penalty decisions must be: recorded in the register; certified with an electronic signature.

Importantly:

• decisions not included in the register will be deemed invalid,
• and no financial penalty may be enforced on that basis.

This establishes digital registration as a legal precondition for enforceability.

Risk-based monitoring and data integration

The electronic system will also:

• track repeat violations;
• apply risk management tools for analysis;
• integrate with other government information systems.

In addition, businesses will gain access to:

• online tracking of penalties;
• digital payment mechanisms;
• potential online appeal procedures.

Strengthening judicial control

The reform enhances the role of courts in reviewing enforcement actions.

It introduces:

• mechanisms for challenging penalties electronically;
• improved coordination between courts and regulatory authorities;
• safeguards ensuring return of improperly collected fines.

If a penalty is отменен:

• collected amounts must be returned within a defined period;
• delay in repayment triggers interest obligations.

Implications

The reform has several important implications:

• businesses benefit from reduced financial burden and more predictable procedures;
• regulators operate within a more structured and transparent system;
• compliance strategies will increasingly focus on early settlement and digital interaction;
• legal risk decreases due to clearer procedural safeguards.

The reform is expected to improve both regulatory efficiency and protection of business rights.

Uzbekistan is introducing a new model for cross-border e-commerce by launching a legal experiment based on bonded warehouses, combining logistics infrastructure, simplified customs procedures and digital trade platforms.

The initiative is aimed at expanding the e-commerce market, reducing the shadow economy and improving regulatory control over online trade.

Legal experiment and strategic objectives

The new framework is implemented as a legal experiment running from 1 July 2026 to 1 July 2028.

It forms part of a broader strategy to:

• increase e-commerce volume;
• create new jobs;
• attract investment into logistics and digital trade infrastructure;
• formalize cross-border retail flows.

Introduction of bonded warehouses for e-commerce

A key feature of the reform is the introduction of bonded warehouses as a new logistics mechanism.

Under this model:

• goods are imported and stored under the “free warehouse” customs regime;
• products are sold directly to individuals;
• sales are conducted exclusively through registered electronic trading platforms.

Bonded warehouses operate under a licensing model similar to free warehouses, creating a regulated environment for cross-border e-commerce activities.

Simplified customs and regulatory regime

The experiment introduces a significantly simplified regulatory framework:

• goods can be released based on a declaration of dispatch;
• conformity assessment, sanitary and veterinary controls are not applied;
• responsibility for compliance is transferred to warehouse operators.

This represents a shift from state-controlled verification to operator-based compliance responsibility.

New tax and customs model

A new approach to customs payments is introduced for goods sold through bonded warehouses.

Depending on the category of goods:

• a unified customs payment may apply;
• reduced rates (e.g., 3% or 5%) are introduced;
• in certain cases, VAT exemptions are granted.

At the same time, authorities will monitor transactions to detect resale:

• if goods are resold for commercial purposes,
• the standard customs regime will apply retroactively.

Capital and foreign trade implications

The framework includes important facilitation measures:

• placement of goods in bonded warehouses by residents is deemed to fulfill repatriation requirements;
• cross-border trade is simplified through digital platforms and streamlined procedures.

This creates more flexibility for businesses engaged in international e-commerce.

Restrictions and control mechanisms

The model is designed primarily for import-based retail:

• goods sourced within Uzbekistan cannot be placed in bonded warehouses for domestic sale (with limited exceptions);
• all platforms must be included in an official registry;
• authorities will maintain continuous monitoring of turnover and transactions.

These measures ensure that the system remains controlled despite regulatory simplifications.

Additional development: online pharmacy sales

As part of the broader reform, authorities are also considering the introduction of:

• online sales of pharmaceutical products through e-commerce platforms;
• development of specific regulatory requirements for such activities.

This indicates further expansion of digital commerce into regulated sectors.

Implications

The introduction of bonded warehouses for e-commerce has several implications:

• e-commerce operators gain access to simplified import and sales mechanisms;
• logistics and warehouse operators assume greater regulatory responsibility;
• investors may benefit from a more structured and transparent digital trade environment;
• regulators retain oversight through digital monitoring and post-control mechanisms.

If successful, the framework could significantly reshape cross-border retail and position the country as a regional hub for digital trade.

Uzbekistan is strengthening its pharmaceutical regulation framework by introducing new requirements for assessing the effectiveness of medicines based on international scientific evidence.

The reform represents a shift toward evidence-based medicine and greater transparency in the drug registration process.

Introduction of evidence-based evaluation

Under the new framework, the effectiveness of medicines will be assessed using international scientific sources and methodologies.

In particular, the evaluation will rely on:

• meta-analyses;
• randomized controlled trials;
• systematic reviews.

These assessments are conducted during the state registration process to ensure that medicines meet internationally recognized standards of efficacy.

Use of international scientific databases

A key innovation is the formal reliance on leading global medical databases and sources, including:

• Cochrane Library;
• PubMed;
• WHO guidelines and essential medicines lists;
• NICE and other international clinical guideline platforms.

In total, 12 recognized international sources are used to verify the effectiveness of medicines, aligning Uzbekistan with global best practices.

Classification of medicines based on effectiveness

Following evaluation, medicines will be categorized into three groups:

• effectiveness confirmed (supported by international evidence);
• effectiveness not confirmed;
• effectiveness not studied.

This classification introduces a clearer regulatory distinction between medicines and enhances transparency for both regulators and market participants.

Role of independent expert commissions

The assessment process will be carried out by independent scientific commissions composed of qualified experts in medicine and pharmaceuticals.

These commissions:

• operate on principles of independence and objectivity;
• analyze international data sources;
• issue formal conclusions on the effectiveness of medicines.

Their findings form the basis for regulatory decisions on registration and continued market access.

Transparency and public disclosure

The results of effectiveness assessments will be:

• submitted electronically to the competent authority;
• published on an official website.

This introduces a new level of transparency in the pharmaceutical market and allows stakeholders to access information on the scientific validity of medicines.

Scope and exclusions

The framework does not apply to certain categories of medicines, including:

• locally developed original medicines submitted for registration;
• homeopathic products;
• certain generic medicines for external use.

This indicates a targeted approach focused primarily on medicines where international evidence can be reliably assessed.

Part of broader pharmaceutical reform

The new framework forms part of a wider reform aimed at:

• aligning drug regulation with international standards;
• ensuring availability of safe, effective and high-quality medicines;
• improving trust in the pharmaceutical system;
• supporting integration into global regulatory and trade systems.

Implications

The reform introduces several important implications:

• pharmaceutical companies will face stricter evidence requirements for registration;
• market access will increasingly depend on internationally recognized clinical data;
• regulatory transparency will improve through public disclosure mechanisms;
• the healthcare system may see a gradual shift toward clinically validated treatments.

Uzbekistan is moving toward a more rigorous and transparent pharmaceutical regulation model based on international scientific evidence.

This approach is expected to enhance the quality of medicines in the market while aligning the country with global regulatory standards.

The new rules will enter into force on 5 July 2026.

Uzbekistan is implementing a broad set of reforms across agriculture, environmental protection and land use, signaling a transition toward a more integrated and state-coordinated regulatory model.

Rather than isolated legislative updates, the measures collectively establish a framework based on digitalization, real-time monitoring and stronger enforcement mechanisms.

Agriculture and water management: shift to data-driven governance

The reforms introduce a more centralized and data-oriented approach to managing agricultural production and water resources.

Key elements include:

• strengthening of institutional oversight over food security and agricultural planning;
• enhanced powers of state bodies to influence crop allocation and production structure;
• development of integrated education and industry clusters, including dual education systems for engineering кадры in agriculture and water management.

In parallel, digital tools are being expanded to support agricultural governance, including data collection and analysis mechanisms that allow authorities to monitor production and resource use more closely.

This reflects a shift toward coordinated, data-based management of the agricultural sector.

Environmental regulation: from policy to real-time compliance

A significant part of the reform package focuses on tightening environmental regulation and introducing continuous monitoring tools.

The “Clean Air” framework establishes:

• mandatory installation of automated monitoring systems at industrial facilities;
• integration of environmental data into state digital platforms;
• stricter requirements for construction projects, including: environmental expertise; minimum green area standards;
• introduction of incentives for ESG compliance, including partial compensation of certification costs.

At the same time, liability is being strengthened:

• administrative fines for failure to provide accurate environmental data;
• expansion of enforcement mechanisms, including automated detection of violations;
• increased exposure to criminal liability for serious экологические правонарушения.

This marks a transition toward a continuous compliance model, where regulatory oversight is embedded into operational processes rather than limited to periodic inspections.

Land use and green infrastructure: stricter control and expansion of protected areas

The reforms also introduce significant changes to land use and environmental infrastructure.

Key measures include:

• expansion of national parks and protected природные территории;
• development of botanical gardens and dendrological parks as objects of national significance;
• strict legal protections: prohibition of privatization, sublease or reduction of such territories;
• introduction of incentives: tax exemptions; customs privileges for imported equipment and planting materials.

In parallel, large-scale greening initiatives aim to increase overall green coverage and improve environmental indicators.

These measures reinforce the position of land as a strategic public asset with heightened regulatory protection.

Key regulatory shift: integration, digitalization and control

Taken together, the reforms demonstrate a clear systemic shift toward:

• data-driven regulation across agriculture and environment;
• real-time monitoring and digital enforcement mechanisms;
• increased state coordination of resource allocation and land use;
• stronger alignment with ESG and sustainability objectives.

The integration of these elements creates a unified regulatory environment where policy, data and enforcement operate as a single system.

Implications for business and investors

The reforms have direct implications across multiple sectors:

• energy and industrial companies will face higher compliance costs due to mandatory monitoring systems and stricter environmental requirements;
• developers and construction companies must integrate environmental standards into project design and execution;
• agribusiness will operate under increased state coordination and data transparency requirements;
• investors may benefit from improved regulatory predictability, but within a more controlled and compliance-intensive environment.

Uzbekistan is moving toward an integrated regulatory model in which agriculture, environmental protection and land use are governed through a combination of digital tools, enforcement mechanisms and centralized coordination.

This approach is likely to enhance efficiency and sustainability, while simultaneously increasing regulatory complexity and compliance expectations for market participants.

Uzbekistan is introducing a formal framework for conducting legal experiments, allowing authorities to test new regulatory approaches before their full-scale implementation.

The initiative is aimed at improving the quality and effectiveness of legislation through controlled, evidence-based application.

What is a legal experiment

A legal experiment is defined as the temporary application of legal norms within:

• a specific territory; and/or
• a defined group of persons.

The purpose is to assess the practical effectiveness of regulatory measures before adopting them as generally binding rules.

Importantly, such experiments cannot be used to restrict or worsen constitutionally protected rights.

Scope and duration

Legal experiments may be conducted across:

• public administration;
• economic and social sectors;
• other areas not explicitly restricted.

The duration is clearly defined:

• minimum: 6 months;
• maximum: 3 years.

The timeframe must be sufficient to evaluate both positive and negative impacts.

Governance and process

The framework establishes a structured process for legal experimentation:

• adoption of experimental legal norms by authorized bodies;
• development of a dedicated implementation program;
• monitoring and evaluation of outcomes;
• involvement of stakeholders, including public consultation.

A designated responsible authority oversees implementation and assessment, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Transparency and public oversight

A key feature is the creation of a Unified Register of Legal Experiments, which will include:

• objectives and scope of each experiment;
• duration, territory, and participants;
• responsible authorities;
• evaluation criteria and results.

The register will be publicly accessible, ensuring transparency and enabling stakeholder feedback.

Outcome-based regulatory decisions

Following completion of an experiment, authorities must, within a defined period:

• adopt the tested rule as generally applicable;
• reject the proposed regulation; or
• extend the duration of the experiment (within legal limits).

A formal report must be prepared and disclosed, outlining the effectiveness, risks, and broader impact of the tested measure.

Safeguards and limitations

The framework includes important safeguards:

• prohibition on experiments that negatively affect fundamental rights;
• requirement for legal clarity and predictability of experimental norms;
• obligation to assess risks and mitigate potential negative consequences;
• public disclosure of results and accountability of authorities.

Implications

The introduction of legal experimentation marks a shift toward:

• evidence-based lawmaking;
• more flexible and adaptive regulation;
• reduced regulatory risk for new initiatives;
• increased transparency and stakeholder engagement.

This tool is particularly relevant for fast-evolving sectors such as fintech, digital economy, and innovation-driven industries.

Uzbekistan is institutionalizing a modern regulatory instrument that allows laws to be tested before full adoption, improving both regulatory quality and predictability.

The law will enter into force on 29 June 2026.

Uzbekistan is undertaking a major transformation of its enforcement system, introducing digital processes, artificial intelligence, and new mechanisms aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing reliance on manual intervention.

The reform reflects a broader shift toward automation, data-driven enforcement, and redistribution of functions between state authorities and creditors.

Automation and AI-driven enforcement

A central element of the reform is the large-scale integration of artificial intelligence into enforcement proceedings.

The framework targets:

• execution of up to 30% of enforcement cases without involvement of state bailiffs;
• automation of at least 70% of decisions taken by enforcement officers;
• elimination of manual processes where possible.

As reflected in the decree, AI technologies and upgraded information systems will be used to accelerate execution procedures and reduce the human factor in decision-making.

Full transition to electronic enforcement proceedings

The reform introduces a comprehensive digital enforcement environment, including:

• transition of enforcement case management to electronic form;
• digitalization of workflows related to execution of judicial and administrative acts;
• automation of distribution of recovered funds.

This effectively creates an end-to-end digital enforcement system, improving speed, transparency, and traceability of proceedings.

Expansion of creditor participation

A notable innovation is the introduction of mechanisms allowing creditors to perform certain enforcement actions directly, without breaching constitutional protections.

This reflects a shift toward:

• reducing dependence on state enforcement bodies;
• increasing procedural flexibility;
• accelerating recovery processes.

New mechanisms for asset recovery and realization

The reform introduces updated approaches to asset recovery, particularly:

• transfer of seized vehicles and real estate directly to the State Assets Management Agency;
• sale of assets through electronic online auctions;
• involvement of tax authorities and banks in execution procedures for: tax debt recovery; secured кредит obligations.

As detailed on pages 2–3, procedural actions related to seizure and inspection of assets may now be carried out by authorized tax officials or bank representatives in certain cases.

Special rules for specific enforcement scenarios

The framework introduces targeted procedural changes, including:

• termination of enforcement proceedings in certain cases upon death or disappearance of the debtor;
• mechanisms allowing use of funds from frozen accounts of legal entities for: salary payments; коммунальные services.

These measures aim to balance enforcement with business continuity and social considerations.

Strengthening enforcement of alimony obligations

The reform introduces stricter enforcement tools for alimony payments.

In particular:

• restrictions may be imposed on: major transactions; access to financial and certain public services;
• such restrictions remain in place until full repayment of задолженность.

This represents a shift toward behavioral enforcement mechanisms targeting non-compliant debtors.

Institutional and systemic changes

Additional structural measures include:

• development of specialized enforcement capacity, including additional staffing;
• integration of data exchange across government systems and digital platforms;
• increased transparency and notification mechanisms for individuals regarding enforcement actions.

Implications

The reform marks a transition from a traditional enforcement model to a hybrid digital system combining automation, AI, and decentralized execution mechanisms.

Key implications include:

• reduced reliance on state bailiffs;
• faster and more predictable enforcement procedures;
• increased role of creditors and financial institutions;
• higher compliance pressure on debtors through automated controls.

Uzbekistan is moving toward a technology-driven enforcement ecosystem, where digital tools and AI play a central role in execution of judicial and administrative decisions.

If effectively implemented, the reform could significantly improve enforcement efficiency and reshape the balance between state authorities and private actors in the recovery process.

Uzbekistan is taking a major step toward positioning itself as a regional financial hub through the creation of the Tashkent International Financial Centre (TIFC), introducing a special legal and regulatory framework aligned with international financial standards.

The initiative is designed to transform Tashkent into a platform for global capital flows, financial services, and investment structuring.

Strategic objectives: building a regional financial hub

The establishment of the Centre reflects a broader strategy to:

• accelerate GDP growth through financial sector development;
• attract long-term foreign direct and portfolio investment;
• improve the country’s investment profile and credit ratings;
• develop human capital in finance, law, and technology;
• integrate Uzbekistan into the global financial system.

The model closely follows leading international financial centres, combining legal innovation with investment incentives.

Creation of a special legal regime

A cornerstone of the reform is the introduction of a special legal regime within the Centre.

Under this regime:

• the Centre’s governing bodies are empowered to adopt regulations across key areas, including: civil and corporate law; financial and banking regulation; taxation; public procurement; labour law; data protection.

This effectively creates a self-contained legal ecosystem within Uzbekistan.

Application of English law and international standards

One of the most significant features is the direct application of:

• English common law (England and Wales);
• principles of equity.

This places the Centre in line with jurisdictions such as DIFC and AIFC, providing:

• legal certainty for international investors;
• familiarity for global financial institutions;
• predictability in dispute resolution and contract enforcement.

The Centre is also empowered to adopt international best practices and standards from other global financial hubs.

Tashkent International Commercial Court

The framework предусматривает establishment of a Tashkent International Commercial Court within the Centre.

Key features include:

• jurisdiction over disputes related to the Centre’s activities;
• ability to hear cases involving foreign investors and international contracts;
• recognition of arbitration and cross-border disputes;
• a two-tier structure (first instance and appellate level).

This introduces an alternative dispute resolution ecosystem aligned with international expectations.

Scope of permitted activities

The Centre will host a wide range of financial and professional services, including:

• banking, investment, and insurance services;
• capital markets and securities transactions;
• fintech and digital (including crypto) assets;
• payment systems;
• Islamic and green finance;
• legal, audit, and consulting services.

This positions the Centre as a multi-functional financial services hub.

Investor and operational incentives

The special regime includes significant operational advantages:

• ability to transact in foreign currencies, including crypto-assets;
• free repatriation of capital and profits;
• simplified hiring of foreign personnel;
• introduction of special visa regimes (up to 5 years);
• application of tax incentives within the Centre.

These measures are designed to attract international institutions and talent.

Governance and institutional setup

The Centre will operate through a dedicated governance structure, including:

• a governing council;
• specialized regulatory and administrative bodies;
• defined territorial jurisdiction within Tashkent.

In addition, the Centre will be supported by public funding and institutional backing at the national level.

Implications

The creation of the TIFC represents a structural shift in Uzbekistan’s legal and financial landscape.

Key implications include:

• emergence of a parallel legal regime based on common law;
• creation of a new dispute resolution forum for international investors;
• increased attractiveness for financial institutions and investment funds;
• development of Uzbekistan as a regional financial services platform.

The Tashkent International Financial Centre has the potential to become a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s economic transformation, bridging domestic reforms with global financial markets.

If effectively implemented, it may position Uzbekistan alongside leading emerging financial hubs in Eurasia.

Uzbekistan is significantly strengthening its personal data protection regime by introducing stricter rules on data storage, cross-border transfers, and scope of application.

The reform reflects a clear shift toward enhanced regulatory control over sensitive data and alignment with global data governance trends.

Mandatory data localization for sensitive categories

A key development is the introduction of mandatory localization requirements for certain categories of personal data.

The following data must now be stored within Uzbekistan:

• biometric data of individuals;
• genetic data;
• personal data of individuals using telecommunications services within Uzbekistan.

As clarified in the amended provisions, these categories are explicitly designated as requiring storage on the territory of Uzbekistan, reinforcing data sovereignty over highly sensitive and large-scale datasets.

This represents a significant tightening compared to the previous framework and directly impacts telecom operators, digital platforms, and data-driven businesses.

Conditional cross-border data transfers

For other types of personal data, cross-border storage and processing remain permitted, but are now subject to stricter conditions.

Transfer abroad is allowed only if one of the following is met:

• the foreign jurisdiction is recognized as providing adequate data protection;
• the operator implements standard contractual clauses or binding corporate rules approved by the competent authority;
• the operator complies with recognized international data protection standards.

This introduces a structured framework similar to international regimes (e.g., adequacy decisions and contractual safeguards), increasing compliance requirements for companies operating across borders.

Expanded exclusions from the law’s scope

The reform also clarifies and expands the categories of data processing activities that fall outside the scope of personal data regulation.

In addition to state secrets, the law now explicitly excludes:

• information related to defense;
• information related to national security.

This aligns data protection rules with national security considerations and creates clearer boundaries between civilian and государственный data regimes.

Regulatory implications for businesses

The updated framework introduces several important implications for companies:

• data localization obligations for telecom and sensitive data operators;
• increased compliance burden for cross-border data transfers;
• need to implement contractual and organizational safeguards;
• closer regulatory oversight over data processing activities.

In particular, multinational companies and digital service providers will need to reassess their data storage architectures and transfer mechanisms.

Broader regulatory trend

The reform signals a broader move toward:

• strengthening data sovereignty;
• enhancing control over critical datasets;
• aligning with global trends in data localization and digital regulation.

At the same time, the introduction of conditional transfer mechanisms preserves a degree of flexibility for international operations.

Overall, the changes mark a transition toward a more structured and compliance-driven data protection regime, combining stricter localization requirements with regulated cross-border data flows.

For businesses operating in Uzbekistan, this represents a shift from a relatively flexible model to one requiring active data governance, legal structuring, and compliance management.

Uzbekistan is advancing reforms in the sports sector by introducing a new governance and financing model for professional football clubs, aimed at increasing private sector participation and improving financial sustainability.

A central element of the reform is the introduction of a trust management mechanism, allowing professional football clubs to be transferred to private operators under defined conditions.

Shift toward private sector involvement

The reform reflects a broader policy direction toward:

• diversification of funding sources in sport;
• reduction of reliance on state financing;
• development of sport as a commercially viable sector;
• introduction of corporate governance practices in professional clubs.

To support this, a centralized funding approach is also introduced, alongside mechanisms to attract private capital into the sector.

Trust management of football clubs

A key innovation is the ability to transfer professional football clubs into trust management by entrepreneurs or groups of investors.

This is subject to a core condition:

• the investor must contribute at least 20% of the club’s annual operating costs.

The selection of trust managers is carried out on a competitive basis, with preference given to those offering higher levels of financial support and stronger development proposals.

Once selected:

• a formal agreement on trust management is concluded;
• investors are granted operational control over the club;
• long-term development obligations may be imposed.

Importantly, this model allows private actors to manage clubs without full ownership transfer, creating a hybrid governance structure.

Governance and oversight framework

The reform introduces corporate governance elements into football club management.

For clubs under trust management:

• supervisory boards and audit mechanisms are established;
• strategic and financial oversight structures are strengthened;
• restrictions are imposed on undue interference by public officials.

At the same time, reporting and accountability requirements are enhanced, including disclosure of financial performance and operational activities.

Public funding and financial support

Despite increased private participation, the state maintains a significant financial role.

The reform предусматривает:

• substantial budget allocations to support the sports sector;
• direct funding for professional football clubs over a multi-year period;
• centralized distribution of funds through a dedicated support mechanism.

This creates a mixed financing model, combining public funding with private investment.

Incentives for business participation

To encourage private sector involvement, several incentives are introduced:

• sponsors contributing at least 20% of annual costs may participate in governance structures of sports organizations;
• tax incentives allow deductions for contributions to sports federations and football clubs (within установленный threshold);
• preferential tax treatment is introduced for players, coaches, and foreign specialists.

These measures are designed to make investment in sport more attractive from both a financial and governance perspective.

Commercialization of football clubs

The reform explicitly promotes commercialization of professional football, including:

• development of sponsorship models;
• diversification of revenue streams (including events, media, and fan engagement);
• introduction of business planning and financial discipline at club level.

This aligns the sector more closely with international models of professional sports management.

Implications

The introduction of trust management represents a structural shift in how professional football clubs are governed.

Key implications include:

• transition toward public-private partnership models in sport;
• emergence of professional club management as an investment opportunity;
• increased accountability and financial transparency;
• gradual movement toward commercialization and market-based operations.

Overall, the reform signals a move from state-driven administration to a hybrid governance model combining public funding, private management, and corporate oversight.

Uzbekistan is taking a significant step toward formalizing sports law as a distinct regulatory domain, introducing a comprehensive legal framework governing participants, commercial relationships, and integrity standards in the sports sector.

The updated approach goes beyond general policy regulation and establishes a structured legal environment for both professional and grassroots sport.

Institutionalization of key market participants

One of the most notable developments is the formal recognition and regulation of key actors within the sports ecosystem, including coaches, referees, and sports agents.

The introduction of sports agents as regulated intermediaries marks a shift toward a more sophisticated legal and commercial structure. Agents are now recognized as representatives acting on behalf of athletes, coaches, or clubs in negotiations and contractual arrangements, bringing greater clarity and accountability to representation in sport.

Recognition of sport as an economic activity

The framework reflects a broader transition toward treating sport as a regulated economic sector. It introduces clearer rules governing:

• contractual relationships between athletes, clubs, and agents;
• organization of professional competitions and leagues;
• operation of sports clubs, including private sector participation;
• involvement of independent professionals, such as self-employed coaches.

This creates a more predictable environment for investment, sponsorship, and commercialization of sport.

Strengthening integrity and compliance mechanisms

A central element of the reform is the introduction of stronger integrity safeguards.

The framework enhances anti-doping regulation and aligns it with international standards, while also introducing measures aimed at preventing unlawful influence on competition outcomes, including match manipulation, conflicts of interest, and improper incentives.

This brings the regulatory model closer to global practices in sports governance and compliance.

Governance and oversight

The system strengthens institutional oversight of the sector through clearer roles for regulators and governing bodies, including:

• supervision of sports organizations and federations;
• standard-setting for competitions and infrastructure;
• monitoring compliance with integrity and safety requirements.

Sports federations are expected to operate with increased transparency and accountability, particularly in enforcing ethical and compliance standards.

Expansion into social and inclusion policy

The framework also extends beyond professional sport, embedding physical culture into broader social policy.

It promotes sport across education systems, workplaces, and communities, and places particular emphasis on adaptive sport as a tool for rehabilitation and social integration of persons with disabilities.

Implications

The reform signals the emergence of a more structured and compliance-driven sports sector.

In practical terms, it:

• establishes sports law as a distinct area of legal regulation;
• introduces formal rules for representation and intermediation;
• strengthens integrity and compliance obligations;
• improves the legal environment for investment and commercialization.

Overall, the changes mark a transition from a policy-based approach to a regulated and institutionally structured sports ecosystem.

Uzbekistan is implementing a major reform of the system governing permits for international road transport of goods and passengers, introducing a more digitalized, transparent, and performance-based framework for national carriers.

The reform significantly restructures the processes of allocation, issuance, use, and monitoring of foreign and multilateral transport permits.

Transition to Border-Based Permit Issuance

A key structural change is the introduction of a mechanism whereby foreign and multilateral permits will be issued directly at border customs checkpoints in the direction of departure.

This represents a departure from the traditional centralized allocation system and is intended to:

• reduce administrative bottlenecks;
• improve real-time access to permits;
• align permit issuance with actual transport flows.

Dedicated permit issuance points will be established at border posts to support this model.

Digital Infrastructure: e-Permit and Pre-Reservation

The reform places strong emphasis on digitalization.

National carriers will be able to reserve required permits in advance through an automated system, up to 10 days prior to cargo loading. This introduces a planning mechanism that did not previously exist.

At the same time, a full electronic ecosystem is introduced:

• “e-Permit” system for electronic circulation and exchange of permits;
• automated registration, issuance, and monitoring of permits;
• integration of transport data across authorities.

This shifts the system toward real-time, data-driven management of international transport flows.

Ranking System and Performance-Based Allocation

One of the most significant innovations is the introduction of a rating system for national carriers, which directly affects access to permits.

The ranking is calculated based on multiple performance indicators, including:

• efficiency of permit usage;
• compliance with transport rules and deadlines;
• operational discipline (e.g., timely return of permits);
• overall activity in international transport operations.

Based on this rating:

• higher-ranked carriers receive priority access to permits;
• lower-ranked carriers face limitations in allocation.

This introduces a quasi-market mechanism into what was previously an administrative distribution system.

Automated Compliance and Sanctions

The system introduces automated enforcement mechanisms, significantly tightening compliance:

• permits may be suspended automatically if transferred to third parties;
• sanctions apply for failure to return permits within установленный срок;
• misuse or inefficient utilization impacts the carrier’s rating and future access.

This reflects a shift toward algorithm-driven regulatory control rather than manual supervision.

Detailed Regulation of Permit Lifecycle

The new framework comprehensively regulates the full lifecycle of permits:

• issuance (including electronic forms);
• reservation and allocation;
• usage conditions depending on transport type (bilateral, transit, multilateral);
• return and accountability procedures;
• interaction with customs and transport authorities.

It also establishes rules for:

• foreign carriers operating in Uzbekistan;
• differentiation between types of international transport operations;
• documentation and verification requirements.

Impact on the Transport Sector

For market participants, the reform introduces a fundamentally new operating environment:

• greater flexibility through border issuance and advance reservation;
• higher predictability via digital planning tools;
• increased compliance burden due to automated monitoring;
• competitive pressure driven by the carrier rating system.

Overall, the system evolves from an administrative allocation model into a hybrid digital-regulatory framework combining automation, ranking, and enforcement mechanisms.

While the regulation has already been adopted, the core operational changes including border issuance and digital permit mechanisms will apply from 1 June 2026.

Uzbekistan continues to refine its notarial system by introducing a structured mechanism allowing notaries to extend their professional activity beyond the standard age limit.

Under the updated approach, notaries who have reached the age of 65 may apply to continue practicing up to the age of 70. This extension is not automatic and is granted on a case-by-case basis following review by the Higher Qualification Commission.

To initiate the process, the notary must submit an application either directly or through regional justice authorities in written or electronic form. The application must be filed within one month from reaching the age threshold.

Once submitted, the application is formally registered and considered at a Commission session. As part of the process, the notary undergoes a mandatory interview, during which professional competence, experience, and ability to continue performing duties are assessed.

The introduction of this mechanism reflects a shift toward a more flexible and individualized approach to кадровая policy in the notarial system. Rather than imposing a strict cutoff, the framework allows for retention of qualified professionals while maintaining institutional oversight.

At the same time, the general age limit of 65 remains unchanged, with extension functioning as an exception subject to evaluation.

From a practical standpoint, the reform:

• enables retention of experienced notaries;
• introduces a merit-based continuation model;
• ensures continued quality control through structured review;
• supports stability in notarial services.

The new rules are scheduled to enter into force on 18 June 2026.

Overall, the changes reflect a more balanced regulatory approach, combining flexibility with safeguards to maintain professional standards and public trust.

Uzbekistan continues its push toward financial transparency and digitalization by introducing a mandatory framework for conducting settlements in real estate and vehicle sale transactions through electronic, bank-verified channels.

The new regulation establishes a structured system of electronic data exchange between notaries and banks, fundamentally changing how payments under sale and purchase agreements are confirmed and processed.

Scope and Objective of the Reform

The new mechanism applies to:

• real estate transactions;
• vehicles (categories M, N, O, G) not older than 10 years;
• special-purpose vehicles.

The reform is aimed at:

• promoting cashless payments;
• reducing the shadow economy;
• ensuring reliability and traceability of transaction data;
• strengthening financial and information security in high-value transactions.

Core Mechanism: Escrow-Based Settlement System

At the center of the new framework is the mandatory use of escrow accounts, which serve as a secure intermediary for settlements between buyers and sellers.

The process is structured as follows:

1. The buyer (or representative) applies to a bank and opens an escrow account;
2. The agreed transaction amount is deposited into the escrow account (in cash or non-cash form);
3. The parties apply to a notary for certification of the transaction;
4. The notary verifies, in real time, the availability of funds via electronic data exchange with the bank;
5. Upon notarization, the bank automatically transfers funds to the seller’s account.

This fully digital workflow ensures that no transaction can be certified without confirmed payment, eliminating risks of non-performance and informal settlements.

Role of Notaries and Banks

The reform significantly expands the functional interaction between notaries and financial institutions:

Notaries:

• verify availability of funds through an automated system;
• certify agreements only upon confirmed payment data;
• transmit transaction confirmation electronically to banks.

Banks:

• maintain escrow accounts;
• provide real-time confirmation of funds;
• execute automatic transfer of funds upon notarization;
• support various funding models, including credit-based transactions.

If sufficient funds are not available, the notary is required to refuse certification of the transaction.

Flexibility in Payment Structures

The regulation accommodates various transaction scenarios:

• Credit financing – banks notify notaries electronically and release funds upon certification;
• Deferred payments – initial agreed amounts are deposited into escrow;
• Multiple sellers or buyers – funds are distributed accordingly;
• Use of existing accounts – including bank cards, demand accounts, and e-wallets as escrow mechanisms.

This flexibility ensures that the system remains practical while maintaining strict control over payment verification.

Data Protection and Confidentiality

All participants including banks, notaries, and their employees are subject to strict confidentiality obligations.

Information obtained during transaction processing must be protected and used solely within the scope of official duties, reinforcing trust in the system.

Regulatory Limitations

The framework does not apply to sale and purchase agreements concluded under investment contracts related to housing construction, which remain subject to separate regulatory treatment.

Practical Implications for Market Participants

For businesses and individuals, the reform introduces several key implications:

• Elimination of informal payment practices in property and vehicle transactions;
• Increased transaction security through escrow mechanisms;
• Greater transparency and auditability for regulators;
• Mandatory alignment with banking infrastructure for deal execution.

For legal practitioners and transactional advisors, this marks a shift toward fully digitized, bank-integrated deal structuring.

The new procedure enters into force on 1 April 2026, after which all applicable transactions must comply with the electronic settlement framework.

Uzbekistan has taken a significant step toward responsible digital transformation by approving a comprehensive set of ethical rules governing the development, deployment, and use of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.

The newly adopted framework establishes a structured approach to AI governance, aimed at ensuring the safe, transparent, and accountable use of AI technologies while safeguarding fundamental rights and public interests.

Scope and Objective of the Ethical Framework

The ethical rules apply to all participants involved in the AI lifecycle including developers, deployers, and users of AI systems operating in Uzbekistan.

The primary objective is to ensure that AI technologies are used safely and responsibly, with a strong emphasis on the protection of human rights, freedoms, and legitimate interests.

Importantly, the framework explicitly clarifies that decisions generated by AI systems must not be treated as final or autonomous. Human oversight remains a mandatory component in all cases involving AI-assisted decision-making.

Core Principles Governing AI Use

The document introduces a set of fundamental principles that must guide all AI-related activities:

• Legality: full compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
• Human-centric approach: prioritization of individual rights, public interest, and environmental protection;
• Transparency and explainability: AI systems must be understandable in terms of logic, data sources, and decision-making processes;
• Accountability and oversight: clear allocation of responsibility, with mandatory human control over AI outputs;
• Fairness and non-discrimination: prohibition of bias based on gender, nationality, religion, or social status;
• Data protection: strict safeguards for personal and restricted data;
• Reliability and safety: ensuring stable, secure, and accurate functioning of AI systems.

These principles align Uzbekistan’s approach with emerging global standards in AI governance and ethical compliance.

Key Compliance Requirements

The framework imposes specific obligations on AI developers and operators, including:

• ensuring transparency of algorithms and decision-making logic;
• preventing bias and discriminatory outcomes;
• providing users with clear information on capabilities, limitations, and risks of AI systems;
• guaranteeing cybersecurity and system integrity;
• maintaining continuous improvement and monitoring of AI systems;
• ensuring that AI outputs are subject to human review and validation.

In parallel, users of AI systems are required to comply with usage rules, respect data protection requirements, and avoid misuse that could harm individuals, society, or the state.

Legal and Regulatory Integration

The ethical rules are designed to operate in conjunction with existing legislation, including laws on:

• personal data protection;
• informatization;
• cybersecurity;
• state, banking, and commercial secrecy.

This integrated approach signals a move toward a more mature and systematized AI regulatory environment.

Practical Implications for Businesses

For businesses particularly those operating in technology, finance, healthcare, and data-driven sectors the introduction of these ethical rules has several implications:

• Increased compliance expectations in AI development and deployment;
• Need for internal governance frameworks addressing AI risk, transparency, and accountability;
• Greater scrutiny of data handling practices, especially involving personal data;
• Opportunities for trusted AI solutions, aligned with regulatory expectations.

Companies leveraging AI will need to reassess their systems to ensure alignment with these principles, particularly in areas involving automated decision-making and customer-facing technologies.

Entry into Force

The ethical framework will enter into force three months after its official publication, providing a transitional period for stakeholders to align their operations with the new requirements.

Uzbekistan is taking another step toward strengthening digital governance by introducing systematic IT audit mechanisms across state bodies and organizations.

Under a recent Cabinet of Ministers resolution, new requirements have been established to improve the implementation and oversight of digital technologies in both republican and local executive authorities. A key element of the reform is the introduction of регулярный IT audit of information infrastructure, covering software, hardware, networks, user access, data storage, and change management processes.

This move is designed to ensure greater transparency, efficiency, and accountability in how digital systems are deployed and operated within the public sector. It also reinforces centralized oversight by the Ministry of Digital Technologies, which is responsible for coordinating digital transformation and monitoring the effectiveness of IT systems across government institutions.

In parallel, the resolution introduces a number of measures aimed at supporting the development of the IT sector and boosting export potential.

In particular, residents of the IT Park are now allowed to pay for foreign services including advertising and software subscriptions using corporate bank cards within an annual limit of USD 500,000. At the same time, they are permitted to receive subscription-based payments from foreign clients under public offer arrangements without mandatory registration in the external trade information system “E-contract”.

The regulatory framework for IT Park activities has also been expanded, with media services now included among the permitted types of activities for residents.

Additionally, broader integration into the “E-government” system is предусмотрена for non-governmental non-profit organizations and startup projects participating in the “Digital Startups” program and the Central Bank’s regulatory sandbox. This is expected to enhance data exchange and foster innovation within the digital ecosystem.

Overall, the reforms reflect a dual approach: strengthening internal controls over government IT infrastructure while simultaneously creating more flexible and business-friendly conditions for the growth of Uzbekistan’s digital economy.

Uzbekistan has adopted a comprehensive Cybersecurity Strategy for 2026-2030, aimed at strengthening national cyber resilience, protecting critical digital infrastructure, and enhancing the country’s ability to prevent and respond to cyber threats.

The strategy establishes a long-term framework for protecting the digital ecosystem across the public sector, private sector, and society, while also promoting technological innovation and international cooperation in cybersecurity.

The strategy identifies several core priorities, including strengthening national cyber resilience, safeguarding critical information infrastructure, reducing systemic cyber risks, and improving the overall level of digital security for citizens, businesses, and government institutions. It also emphasizes the importance of developing artificial intelligence technologies and strengthening technological independence in cybersecurity while expanding international cooperation in addressing cyber threats.

Institutional and regulatory reforms

A key component of the strategy is the establishment of institutional mechanisms for cybersecurity governance. A National Coordination Council on cybersecurity and combating cybercrime will be formed under the leadership of the Secretary of the Security Council.

At the operational level, new cybersecurity units will be created within several key government institutions, including the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Energy, and the Tax Committee. These units will operate within existing staffing structures and will be responsible for implementing cybersecurity measures and ensuring compliance with national standards.

Other state agencies and organizations will also introduce dedicated cybersecurity functions or rely on certified cybersecurity service providers registered in a national registry.

Development of cyber threat monitoring and response systems

The strategy places significant emphasis on building a national system for monitoring and responding to cyber incidents. This includes the development of specialized national cyber threat response centers, early warning systems, and mechanisms for rapid information exchange between government agencies, critical infrastructure operators, and cybersecurity authorities.

The strategy also provides for the creation of integrated systems capable of detecting vulnerabilities and monitoring cyber threats affecting both government information systems and critical digital infrastructure.

Strengthening cybercrime prevention and digital forensics

Another important direction of the reform is strengthening the country’s capacity to combat cybercrime and conduct digital investigations.

The strategy envisages the development of specialized law-enforcement capabilities, expansion of digital forensic laboratories, and introduction of modern investigative technologies. These measures are expected to improve the detection and prosecution of cyber-related offenses while enhancing cooperation between law-enforcement agencies and digital service providers.

In addition, targeted initiatives will be implemented to counter online fraud, phishing, and other forms of cyber-enabled financial crime.

Development of national cybersecurity technologies

The strategy also supports the development of domestic cybersecurity technologies and solutions. This includes encouraging the growth of national software and hardware solutions for cybersecurity, promoting research and development in artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies, and supporting innovation in cyber defense technologies.

The government also plans to expand cooperation between academic institutions, research organizations, and private technology companies to accelerate the development of cybersecurity solutions.

Human capital and cyber awareness

Recognizing the importance of skilled professionals, the strategy includes measures aimed at developing cybersecurity expertise and improving digital literacy among the population.

These initiatives include training programs for cybersecurity specialists, certification programs aligned with international standards, and educational initiatives designed to improve cyber awareness among citizens, students, and public sector employees.

Special programs will also be introduced to support young talent in cybersecurity and to promote cyber hygiene practices among internet users.

International cooperation

Finally, the strategy highlights the importance of international cooperation in cybersecurity governance. Uzbekistan plans to strengthen collaboration with foreign cybersecurity agencies, international organizations, and global cybersecurity networks.

Participation in international cyber exercises, joint investigations of cyber incidents, and cooperation within regional and global cybersecurity frameworks are expected to enhance Uzbekistan’s ability to respond to cross-border cyber threats.

Expected outcomes

Implementation of the strategy is expected to strengthen the country’s digital sovereignty, enhance the protection of critical infrastructure, improve trust in digital services, and create a more secure environment for the continued development of the digital economy.

Uzbekistan has introduced a comprehensive reform aimed at transforming the development of multi-apartment residential buildings by introducing integrated construction mechanisms, enhanced transparency, and stronger protection of property owners’ rights.

The reform seeks to accelerate housing development, improve urban planning, and ensure that residential construction is aligned with broader urbanization, infrastructure, and environmental objectives.

The new framework introduces a coordinated model for residential development, supported by investment companies, digital urbanization platforms, and updated regulatory mechanisms governing construction and housing markets.

Integrated Construction as the New Development Model

A key element of the reform is the introduction of integrated construction projects, which move away from fragmented housing development toward a coordinated urban planning approach.

Under this model:

• development areas are planned through detailed master plans;
• territories are divided into investment lots;
• engineering infrastructure, residential buildings, and public spaces are designed as part of a single development concept.

To test this new model, the government has introduced an experimental regulatory sandbox regime, allowing integrated housing projects to be implemented in designated territories over a defined period.

Construction of multi-apartment housing in these areas must comply with the new integrated development procedures, which replace traditional fragmented development models.

Investment Companies as Key Project Coordinators

The reform establishes specialized investment companies responsible for coordinating integrated development projects.

These companies serve as an operational bridge between:

• developers and investors,
• government agencies,
• local authorities,
• property owners.

Their responsibilities include:

• preparing master plans for development territories;
• organizing the preparation of primary permits and design documentation;
• determining the starting price for development lots;
• placing development lots for electronic auction;
• coordinating infrastructure construction and engineering networks;
• supervising project implementation by developers.

Investment companies also maintain coordination with regional authorities and urban planning bodies to ensure compliance with national development policies.

Protection of Property Owners in Redevelopment Areas

The new system introduces safeguards aimed at protecting the rights of property owners in redevelopment zones.

Integrated construction projects may proceed only after notarized settlement agreements have been concluded with at least 80% of property owners located within the redevelopment territory.

If agreements cannot be reached with remaining owners regarding compensation terms, investment companies may apply to the courts to determine compensation based on the average market value established through concluded agreements with other property owners.

This mechanism aims to balance urban redevelopment needs with the protection of private property rights.

Creation of a National “Land Bank” for Housing Development

To improve long-term planning of residential construction, the reform introduces the concept of a “Land Bank” for housing development.

This system will include land plots identified for future multi-apartment housing construction and categorized according to their legal and urban planning status, including:

• vacant state-owned land plots;
• land with state-owned facilities subject to privatization;
• privately owned land plots eligible for redevelopment;
• designated renovation zones;
• land whose category may be changed for development purposes.

The Land Bank will ensure that housing development projects are pre-approved from an urban planning and infrastructure perspective before construction begins.

Digitalization of Urban Planning and Construction Processes

A major element of the reform is the creation of a Unified Digital Urbanization Platform (“Uy-joy”).

This platform will integrate data related to:

• urban planning documentation;
• construction permits;
• land allocation;
• financing and construction progress;
• property transactions;
• infrastructure development.

Through inter-agency integration, the platform will allow authorities to track the entire lifecycle of housing projects, from land allocation to construction completion and property registration.

Beginning in 2027, permits for construction works in multi-apartment buildings will be issued automatically through digital integration between government systems.

Transparency and Control in the Construction Sector

To strengthen oversight in the housing sector, the reform also introduces mechanisms aimed at increasing transparency.

Among these measures is the creation of a Unified Public Register of Unauthorized Multi-Apartment Buildings, which will be maintained within the national “Transparent Construction” information system.

This register will allow authorities to monitor illegal construction and take enforcement measures where necessary.

At the same time, the National Committee for Sustainable Urbanization and Housing Market Development will conduct systematic monitoring of compliance with urban planning regulations and may issue binding instructions to suspend construction activities if violations are detected.

Environmental and Urban Sustainability Measures

The reform also incorporates environmental considerations into urban development.

Investment companies are required to prioritize the creation of:

• green parks,
• eco-parks,
• urban alleys and landscaped public spaces.

To support these initiatives, local budgets will allocate a portion of revenues generated from the sale of state property within development areas to the expansion of green infrastructure.

Strategic Implications for the Housing Market

The reform represents a significant shift in Uzbekistan’s housing policy, aiming to modernize the residential construction sector and align it with international urban development practices.

Key expected outcomes include:

• accelerated housing construction;
• improved urban planning coordination;
• greater transparency in the construction sector;
• stronger protection of property owners’ rights;
• increased attractiveness of housing projects for investors.

In the long term, the new integrated development model is expected to reshape Uzbekistan’s residential real estate market and support sustainable urbanization across the country.

Uzbekistan has introduced new measures aimed at expanding and improving the VAT refund system for foreign citizens purchasing goods in the country. The reform is designed to stimulate retail sales to international visitors, enhance transparency in retail transactions, and strengthen Uzbekistan’s attractiveness as a tourism and shopping destination.

Expansion of the Tax Free system nationwide

The tax refund mechanism for foreign visitors was initially introduced on a pilot basis, allowing partial refunds of value-added tax (VAT) paid by foreign citizens when purchasing certain goods from retail businesses. Service points were previously established at major international airports to process refunds.

Under the new measures, the system will be expanded nationwide. Beginning in April 2026, VAT refund services will become available at all international airports in Uzbekistan, significantly widening access for foreign travelers departing the country.

In addition, a pilot Tax Free service point will be established at the Gishtkuprik border crossing, enabling VAT refunds for travelers leaving Uzbekistan through land borders.

Refund options and payment mechanisms

Foreign citizens will be able to choose between different methods for receiving their VAT refunds.

Refunds may be provided:

• in cash at service points in international airports, or
• via transfer to a foreign bank card.

When refunds are processed through the Tax Free system, 85% of the VAT amount will be returned to the purchaser, while 15% will be retained as the operator’s service fee.

For refunds made to bank cards, the payment must be completed within three working days after the goods are exported from Uzbekistan.

Removal of restrictions and minimum purchase threshold

The reform also introduces several important changes intended to simplify access to VAT refunds.

A minimum purchase value of UZS 300,000 (including VAT) will apply in order for foreign citizens to qualify for a refund.

At the same time, the previously limited list of goods eligible for the Tax Free system will be abolished, meaning that VAT refunds will generally apply to a broader range of retail products (with the exception of food products).

Digitalization of the refund process

To facilitate the administration of VAT refunds, the Tax Committee will introduce electronic identification through a dedicated mobile application.

Foreign citizens will be able to verify their identity using their email address within the tax authorities’ mobile application, enabling the system to track purchases and process VAT refunds more efficiently.

This digital component is expected to reduce administrative procedures and simplify interactions between retailers, tax authorities, and foreign visitors.

Promotion of the system for international visitors

Government agencies responsible for tourism and taxation have also been tasked with promoting the Tax Free system internationally. Informational materials will be prepared in several languages and distributed through tourism channels, airports, retail centers, and international travel platforms to ensure that visitors are aware of the VAT refund opportunities available in Uzbekistan.

Expected impact

The reform forms part of broader efforts to modernize Uzbekistan’s retail and tourism infrastructure. Authorities expect the expansion of the Tax Free system to significantly increase purchases by foreign visitors and contribute to the formalization of retail transactions.

By simplifying VAT refunds and expanding their availability across the country’s international gateways, Uzbekistan aims to strengthen its competitiveness as a regional tourism and shopping destination while encouraging transparent retail practices.

Uzbekistan has launched a comprehensive set of reforms aimed at accelerating the development of its pharmaceutical sector, expanding domestic production, strengthening research capabilities, and positioning the country as a regional hub for biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation.

The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to increase investment, stimulate technological transfer, and enhance the competitiveness of locally produced medicines in both domestic and international markets.

Strategic Targets for Sector Growth

The reform package sets ambitious development targets for the pharmaceutical industry in the near term. These include increasing total pharmaceutical production, expanding exports, launching new investment projects, and significantly diversifying product lines.

According to the policy framework, the government aims to:

• increase pharmaceutical production to 8.5 trillion UZS;
• attract approximately USD 1 billion in prospective investment projects;
• launch new pharmaceutical investment projects totaling USD 800 million;
• expand exports of pharmaceutical products and services to USD 300 million;
• introduce 350 new pharmaceutical products to the market.

A key element of this strategy is the further development of the Tashkent Pharma Park innovation cluster, which is intended to evolve into a biotechnology and pharmaceutical research hub known as “BioPharma City.”

Technology Transfer and R&D Support

To encourage the rapid localization of pharmaceutical production, the reforms introduce financial support mechanisms for companies that begin manufacturing medicines soon after the expiration of patents for original drugs.

Under the new measures:

• 50% of technology transfer costs may be reimbursed, up to USD 50,000;
• alternatively, 50% of research and development expenses for creating pharmaceutical products may be reimbursed, up to USD 100,000.

These incentives are financed through the Fund for the Support and Development of the Pharmaceutical Industry, reflecting a policy focus on strengthening domestic technological capacity and reducing reliance on imported medicines.

Support for International Certification and Market Access

Additional support measures are designed to help domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers obtain internationally recognized certifications and expand into global markets.

From mid-2026, companies may receive reimbursement for:

• 50% of costs associated with foreign consultants assisting with the implementation of international standards such as EU GMP and US FDA GMP, as well as WHO prequalification procedures, up to USD 50,000.

These measures are intended to improve product quality, enable international regulatory recognition, and facilitate export expansion.

Incentives for Innovation and High-Tech Drug Production

Enterprises that implement industrial production of high-technology pharmaceutical products within three years may receive additional financial support.

Specifically, the government may compensate interest expenses on project-related loans for up to two years, further reducing financing costs for innovative pharmaceutical manufacturing projects.

This approach aims to stimulate investment in advanced pharmaceutical technologies, including biologics, biosimilars, and specialized medical treatments.

Tax Incentives for Pharmaceutical Investment Projects

The reform package also introduces long-term tax incentives to attract investment into pharmaceutical production and medicinal plant processing.

Companies implementing investment projects in these areas may receive:

• exemption from land tax for three years from the start of project implementation (subject to production thresholds);
• exemption from profit tax and property tax for three years after the facilities begin operations.

In addition, non-resident companies receiving royalty payments for technology transfer or trademarks used in pharmaceutical production may benefit from a reduced tax rate of 5% until 2030, unless otherwise provided by international agreements.

Strengthening Product Safety and Quality Standards

The reforms also introduce stricter regulatory requirements aimed at improving the safety and traceability of pharmaceutical and health-related products.

Beginning in 2028:

• production of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) will require the implementation of the HACCP system for risk analysis and control;
• such products will also become subject to mandatory digital labeling.

These measures are intended to improve consumer protection and ensure better regulatory oversight of health-related products.

Establishment of a National Biopharmaceutical Research Institute

To strengthen the scientific base of the pharmaceutical sector, a National Biopharmaceutical Research Institute will be established through the consolidation of several existing research institutions, including pharmaceutical and vaccine research centers.

The institute will focus on:

• advanced research in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals;
• development of innovative medicines;
• technology transfer and commercialization of scientific research;
• training of highly qualified specialists in pharmaceutical sciences.

Education and Talent Development

Human capital development also forms a key part of the reform agenda.

Beginning in the 2026/2027 academic year, specialized educational programs in biological sciences will be introduced at the Abu Ali Ibn Sino specialized school, integrated with the Pharmaceutical Technical University under a STEM-based five-year education model.

This initiative is designed to create a pipeline of highly qualified specialists capable of supporting the long-term development of Uzbekistan’s pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.

Strategic Implications

Taken together, the reforms represent one of the most comprehensive policy packages introduced in Uzbekistan’s pharmaceutical sector in recent years.

By combining investment incentives, tax benefits, R&D support, international certification assistance, and institutional reforms, the government aims to:

• strengthen domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing;
• promote innovation and technology transfer;
• expand exports of high-value pharmaceutical products;
• position Uzbekistan as a regional center for pharmaceutical research and biotechnology development.

The development of BioPharma City and the expansion of the Tashkent Pharma Park cluster are expected to play a central role in achieving these objectives.

Uzbekistan has introduced a new mechanism encouraging industrial enterprises to reduce their environmental footprint by installing monitoring and pollution-control infrastructure. The measure establishes financial incentives for companies that implement systems to monitor air quality and install pollution-reduction technologies.

The initiative forms part of broader environmental reforms aimed at improving industrial compliance with environmental standards while encouraging voluntary investments in environmental monitoring and pollution control.

Incentive Mechanism for Environmental Monitoring and Pollution Control

The new framework introduces a two-stage incentive model designed to motivate industrial enterprises to adopt environmental monitoring systems and modern pollution-control technologies.

First Stage: Installation of Air Monitoring Stations

Industrial enterprises that install baseline atmospheric monitoring stations to measure air pollution levels may receive significant financial incentives.

These include:

• cancellation of outstanding compensation debts arising from environmental damage payments;
• reimbursement of up to 50 percent of compensation payments previously transferred to the state budget for environmental damage over a two-year period.

This stage is intended to encourage enterprises to introduce continuous environmental monitoring and improve transparency regarding emissions.

Second Stage: Implementation of Pollution Control Technologies

Enterprises that have already installed monitoring stations and subsequently introduce dust-gas purification equipment and wastewater treatment systems within the following year may receive additional incentives.

Under this second stage:

• 70 percent of environmental compensation payments transferred to the state budget may be reimbursed to the enterprise within two years.

This creates a clear financial motivation for companies to move beyond monitoring and actively implement pollution-reduction technologies.

Application and Administrative Procedure

Enterprises seeking to benefit from these incentives must submit applications through:

• Public Service Centers, or
• the Unified Portal of Interactive Public Services (EPIGU).

The application must include supporting documentation confirming the installation of monitoring equipment and environmental control technologies. These materials are evaluated based on a conclusion issued by the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change.

Applications are reviewed within 15 working days from the date of notification.

Environmental Monitoring Infrastructure

The regulation establishes a structured approach for monitoring industrial emissions. Monitoring stations installed by enterprises are integrated into the national environmental monitoring system, enabling authorities to track pollution levels and environmental performance.

The regulation also outlines the procedural workflow for verifying compliance and processing reimbursement claims. A structured review process involving environmental authorities ensures that incentives are granted only when monitoring infrastructure and pollution-control equipment are properly installed and operational.

Policy Objectives

The incentive mechanism aims to achieve several strategic objectives:

• encourage voluntary environmental investments by industrial enterprises;
• expand nationwide monitoring of air pollution and environmental impact;
• accelerate adoption of pollution-reduction technologies;
• improve environmental transparency and compliance.

By linking financial incentives to environmental performance, the government seeks to combine regulatory enforcement with economic motivation.

Implications for Industry

For industrial enterprises, the new framework creates both compliance obligations and financial opportunities.

Companies that invest in environmental monitoring infrastructure and pollution-control systems may significantly reduce their environmental compensation liabilities, while also improving regulatory compliance and environmental performance.

At the same time, the initiative signals a broader policy shift toward environmental accountability and technological modernization in industrial sectors.

Uzbekistan continues to refine its regulatory framework for crypto-asset service providers through a new set of amendments to the licensing regime administered by the National Agency of Perspective Projects. The changes build upon earlier reforms and signal a clear shift toward enhanced supervisory discretion, stronger compliance expectations, and greater investor protection within the digital asset market.

The amendments introduce structural adjustments to the existing Regulation on licensing activities in the field of crypto-asset circulation, complementing earlier revisions adopted in 2024. They are grounded in the Agency’s statutory mandate as the authorized regulator of crypto-assets and capital markets.

Introduction of “Motivated Judgment” as a Supervisory Tool

The most notable development is the formal introduction of the concept of “motivated judgment.”

Under the amended framework, the licensing authority may apply a professional assessment that prioritizes the substance over the form of the matter under review. This assessment may rely not only on formally submitted documents but also on:

• Information obtained during supervisory oversight,
• Data received from domestic or foreign authorities,
• Information from international organizations,
• Other reliable sources relevant to risk evaluation.

Importantly, “motivated judgment” is now explicitly included among the grounds for refusing to issue a license.

Practical Implication

This significantly increases regulatory discretion. Even where formal documentation appears compliant, the Agency may refuse a license if risk indicators, reputational concerns, or AML/CFT-related information suggest heightened exposure.

For applicants, this means that licensing is no longer a purely document-driven process, it has become a risk-based assessment.

Enhanced Risk Disclosure Requirements

The amendments also strengthen investor protection requirements. License applicants must ensure that operational documentation and public communications include clear warnings regarding:

• Volatility risks of crypto-assets,
• Potential total loss of funds,
• Technical failures,
• Risks of unlawful actions (including theft),
• The absence of state guarantees,
• The non-recognition of crypto-assets as legal tender in Uzbekistan (except where specifically provided by law).

This reflects a policy orientation toward aligning the crypto sector with international standards of transparency and consumer awareness.

Expanded and Clarified Grounds for License Refusal

The revised regulation consolidates and expands the grounds for refusal to issue a license. These include:

• Incomplete documentation,
• Failure to meet licensing requirements,
• Court-imposed bans,
• Submission of inaccurate or distorted information,
• Involvement or suspected involvement of founders or officials in specified criminal activities,
• The application of motivated judgment by the licensing authority.

Earlier amendments also clarified that refusal cannot be based on vague or discretionary considerations outside the expressly listed grounds. The current reform therefore balances broader supervisory tools with formalized refusal criteria.

Strengthening Fit-and-Proper and Compliance Standards

Previous changes introduced stricter documentation requirements for foreign founders and executives, including legalized or apostilled criminal record certificates with notarized translation.

Taken together, the reforms reinforce:

• Enhanced due diligence for ownership and management,
• AML/CFT risk sensitivity,
• Heightened scrutiny of beneficial owners,
• Preventive control of market entry.

The Agency’s regulatory authority and mandate in crypto-asset circulation, including licensing and oversight functions, are established under presidential-level acts, providing institutional backing for this strengthened regime.

Regulatory Direction: Risk-Based and Internationally Aligned

The cumulative effect of the amendments indicates a transition from a formal compliance model to a risk-based supervisory model consistent with global regulatory practice.

Key characteristics of the evolving framework include:

• Discretionary but structured supervisory assessment,
• Substance-over-form analysis,
• Reinforced investor protection standards,
• Alignment with AML/CFT expectations,
• Greater accountability of founders and management.

For crypto exchanges, custodians, wallet operators, and other service providers, this signals a more mature and demanding regulatory environment.

Conclusion

Uzbekistan is not restricting crypto-asset activity; rather, it is institutionalizing it within a more rigorous supervisory architecture.

The introduction of “motivated judgment” as a licensing tool marks a decisive step toward sophisticated regulatory oversight. Market participants must therefore reassess their compliance architecture, governance structures, and transparency practices to ensure alignment with the strengthened regime.

The reforms underscore a broader strategic objective: fostering innovation in digital finance while ensuring systemic integrity, investor protection, and reputational safeguards in the national crypto ecosystem.

Uzbekistan has finalized a comprehensive reform package fundamentally restructuring the forensic expertise system. The reform integrates digital transformation, institutional redesign of the non-state forensic sector, mandatory electronic document exchange, expanded categories of expert analysis, enhanced certification mechanisms, and technological modernization.

Taken together, these measures represent one of the most significant overhauls of the forensic infrastructure in recent years, with implications for courts, investigative authorities, legal practitioners, businesses, and investors.

I. Transition to Mandatory Electronic Document Exchange

At the core of the reform is the full operationalization of the “E-ekspertiza” electronic information platform.

The system establishes mandatory electronic interaction between:

• courts,
• pre-investigation bodies,
• investigative authorities,
• administrative bodies empowered to appoint examinations,
• state forensic institutions,
• non-state forensic organizations.

Under the new framework:

• decisions appointing forensic examinations must be submitted electronically;
• case materials are transmitted digitally;
• expert registration and workflow are conducted within the system;
• expert conclusions are prepared and delivered electronically;
• appointing authorities monitor examination status in real time;
• contract-based examinations may be paid electronically via the platform.

Critically, once full integration is implemented, forensic organizations are prohibited from conducting examinations where the appointing decision and materials were not transmitted via the platform. This eliminates informal or paper-based routing of cases and creates a single traceable procedural channel.

The electronic integration is phased across national, regional, and district levels and extends to non-state forensic organizations.

II. Digital Justice Architecture and AI Integration

The reform is not limited to document exchange.

It includes:

• gradual implementation of artificial intelligence tools in forensic analysis,
• digital examination of photo, audio, video and text materials,
• future extension of AI to additional expert categories,
• introduction of new expert areas including crypto-assets, digital manipulation detection, and AI-related violations.

In addition, courts and investigative authorities are required to use the electronic system for routing examination materials, except in cases involving state secrets or protected information.

This signals the creation of a digital forensic ecosystem aligned with modern evidentiary standards.

III. Institutional Reform of the Non-State Forensic Sector

The reform fundamentally restructures the legal status of private forensic expertise.

Key elements include:

• Mandatory organization of non-state forensic entities as non-commercial organizations.
• Permission for independent experts to operate individually as forensic bureaus.
• Creation of an Expert Qualification Commission under the Ministry of Justice.
• Establishment of a unified electronic register of certified non-state forensic experts.

From a governance perspective, this balances market liberalization with centralized oversight.

IV. Certification and Professional Competence

The reform introduces a structured pathway for becoming a non-state forensic expert:

• Mandatory retraining programs;
• Qualification testing;
• Interview-based examination procedures;
• Issuance of certification confirming professional competence;
• Entry into a unified electronic registry.

Experienced forensic specialists may qualify under simplified conditions.

This significantly enhances professional accountability and traceability of expert credentials.

V. Expansion of Expert Categories

The reform expands the types of forensic examinations available to non-state organizations, including:

• financial and banking loss analysis,
• intellectual property economic examinations,
• digital audiovisual product evaluation,
• transport technical condition analysis,
• accident mechanism mathematical reconstruction,
• micro-particle analysis,
• video-technical and photo-technical expertise,
• psychological-linguistic expertise,
• digital evidence and AI-related violations.

This diversification increases private-sector participation and reduces pressure on state institutions.

VI. Technological Modernization of State Forensic Institutions

The reform also addresses technical capacity:

• acquisition of modern laboratory equipment;
• authorization to lease state forensic equipment to other forensic entities on a contractual basis;
• introduction of mobile body cameras for field inspections;
• phased introduction of virtual autopsy practices;
• procurement of unmanned aerial vehicles for forensic inspections;
• expansion of accredited laboratories.

This reflects a shift toward technologically enabled forensic investigation.

VII. Procedural Implications for Legal Practice

For courts and investigative authorities:

• strict electronic routing improves procedural discipline;
• elimination of paper reduces delays and postal costs;
• real-time tracking enhances case management transparency.

For businesses:

• faster contract-based forensic examinations;
• clearer procedural rules;
• expanded access to private expert services.

For investors and international stakeholders:

• strengthened evidentiary reliability;
• increased predictability in dispute resolution;
• improved institutional transparency.

VIII. Structural Impact

The reform does not merely digitize procedures, it:

• formalizes private participation,
• centralizes certification oversight,
• creates a unified digital case-routing mechanism,
• expands expert specializations,
• introduces AI-supported analysis,
• strengthens institutional accountability.

This represents a systemic reconfiguration of the forensic ecosystem.

Uzbekistan has completed a structural modernization of its forensic expertise system by integrating digital document exchange, institutional oversight of non-state actors, expanded expert categories, and technological innovation.

The transition to mandatory electronic workflows and regulated private-sector participation enhances procedural integrity, reduces administrative barriers, and strengthens the overall reliability of forensic evidence in judicial and administrative proceedings.

Uzbekistan has adopted a comprehensive reform package aimed at accelerating modernization of the national technical regulation system in line with advanced international practice.

The reform restructures the national quality infrastructure, introduces risk-based market surveillance, transitions to international standards, strengthens accreditation independence, modernizes metrology, and embeds quality management principles across public administration and industry.

The measures signal a systemic transformation of Uzbekistan’s regulatory environment and industrial governance model.

Strategic Reform Directions

The document defines several priority reform areas:

• abolition of the ineffective legacy control model and introduction of market surveillance practices;
• full transition to the application of international standards in industry;
• elimination of conflicts of interest within the national quality infrastructure;
• large-scale implementation of industrial metrology, verification and calibration systems;
• development of a nationwide “quality culture” across business and consumer sectors.

For 2026, key performance targets include:

• improving Uzbekistan’s position in the Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development Index by at least 20 positions;
• increasing 2.5 times the number of calibration capabilities recognized by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM);
• ensuring that at least 80% of accreditation services are internationally recognized.

Introduction of Market Surveillance System

In line with international practice, Uzbekistan will transition from a pre-control certification model to a market surveillance approach.

Key measures include:

• From 1 January 2027, products subject to technical regulations will be marked with a new national conformity mark “Conformity Uzbekistan”.
• Compliance assessment will be conducted using a risk-based approach.
• Products covered by technical regulations will be excluded from the list of goods subject to mandatory conformity assessment under previous mechanisms.

This marks a significant structural shift from administrative certification toward post-market supervision aligned with EU-style regulatory practice.

Business Environment Liberalization

From 1 April 2026, significant relief measures are introduced for conformity assessment bodies:

• accreditation service deductions are reduced 2.5 times (now 2%);
• state bodies are prohibited from creating competing laboratories or certification bodies where at least two accredited private entities already operate;
• businesses may independently choose training programs and educational institutions for specialist qualification upgrades;
• conformity assessment bodies may conduct export-oriented conformity work under foreign standards, subject to accreditation within the National Accreditation System.

These changes aim to stimulate private sector participation and reduce administrative barriers.

Quality Management Institutionalization

From 1 April 2026:

• one of the deputy heads of specified state bodies and enterprises will assume the function of quality manager responsible for coordination in technical regulation, standardization, and metrology;
• KPI evaluations of district and city khokim assistants will include indicators related to the implementation of international standards and management systems at enterprises.

This embeds quality management responsibilities directly into governance structures.

Reform of Standards and Technical Regulations

Major structural changes include:

• From 1 May 2026, standards of any level will become voluntary, introducing international practice of voluntary standard application.
• From 1 January 2027, adoption of technical regulations will require prior regulatory impact assessment (RIA), including assessment of impact on industry, entrepreneurship, and product safety.
• Artificial intelligence tools will be applied in conducting impact assessments.

This significantly modernizes regulatory development methodology.

Full Transition to International Standards by Sector

Production and service delivery in the following sectors will shift entirely to international standards:

From 1 July 2026:

• textile and leather production,
• furniture manufacturing,
• electrical engineering,
• automotive industry,
• information technologies.

From 1 January 2027:

• oil and gas,
• metallurgy,
• transport,
• construction materials,
• medical device manufacturing.

From 1 January 2028:

• energy,
• chemical industry,
• environmental services,
• services sector.

The staged transition provides sectoral predictability for businesses.

Metrology Reform

From 1 January 2027:

• verification systems will replace the traditional calibration comparison practice;
• industrial measuring instruments affecting product quality will shift to calibration;
• certification of reference materials will be abolished;
• calibration capabilities recognized by BIPM will be exempt from national accreditation requirements.

A list of high-precision measurement standards to be procured in 2026 has also been approved.

This aligns national metrology practices with international measurement traceability frameworks.

Accreditation System Reform

To ensure independence and impartiality:

• the Uzbek Agency for Technical Regulation will cease its accreditation authority;
• legislation mandating compulsory accreditation by specific bodies will be prohibited.

From 1 September 2026:

• testing protocols of accredited laboratories (except internal production testing) must be registered in the “e-akkreditatsiya” information system;
• the accreditation body will receive full access to the National Technical Regulation Information System.

This separation of functions reduces institutional conflict of interest.

Human Capital Development

Technical regulation fields receive strategic educational prioritization:

• scholarship quotas under the “El-yurt umidi” Foundation will prioritize technical regulation;
• from the 2026/2027 academic year, special scholarships will be introduced for students in standardization, metrology, and conformity assessment;
• EU-model academic hours on technical regulation will be incorporated;
• joint “2+2” educational programs with foreign universities will be launched.

This supports long-term institutional capacity building.

Business and Investment Implications

The decree signals a decisive shift toward:

• international conformity practices,
• regulatory predictability,
• export compatibility,
• risk-based market supervision,
• reduced state interference in conformity services,
• strengthened quality infrastructure.

For exporters, manufacturers, certification bodies, and foreign investors, the reforms significantly improve regulatory alignment with global trade frameworks.

Conclusion

Presidential Decree represents one of the most comprehensive reforms of Uzbekistan’s technical regulation system in recent years. By restructuring accreditation, introducing risk-based market surveillance, making standards voluntary, and aligning metrology and conformity assessment with international practice, Uzbekistan is positioning its quality infrastructure for deeper integration into global markets.

Uzbekistan has approved a comprehensive new regulatory framework establishing a unified competitive procedure for appointment to state notary offices and for granting the right to engage in private notarial practice.

The new system will enter into force on 1 April 2026.

The reform introduces standardized testing, mandatory professional training, digital examination platforms, and enhanced transparency mechanisms aimed at strengthening professional standards and integrity in the notarial system.

Centralized and Unified Selection Procedure

The unified competition replaces previously fragmented appointment procedures and will be conducted jointly by:

• the Higher Qualification Commission under the Ministry of Justice; and
• the national Agency for Knowledge and Qualification Assessment.

This structure combines professional oversight with independent testing administration, reinforcing institutional credibility and procedural neutrality.

Vacant and additional notary positions in each notarial district must be published regularly on the official website of the Ministry of Justice.

Two-Stage Examination Process

The competition consists of two structured stages.

Stage I – Electronic Testing

Candidates must pass electronic examinations covering:

• public and municipal administration,
• anti-corruption legislation,
• civil law,
• notarial law,
• inheritance law.

Testing is conducted throughout the year (with limited seasonal exceptions) depending on regional candidate distribution. Candidates scoring more than 55 points are deemed to have successfully passed this stage.

The testing process is digitally administered and recorded, strengthening procedural transparency and accountability.

Stage II – Practical Examination

Candidates who pass the written stage proceed to a practical assessment conducted via a specialized electronic platform.

The practical stage requires candidates to:

• prepare draft notarial acts; and
• resolve a structured case scenario.

The practical examination is recorded via audio and video and broadcast in real time on the official website of the Ministry of Justice. This live-streaming mechanism significantly increases transparency and public oversight of the selection process.

Candidates may compete for only one notarial district per commission session.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• be citizens of Uzbekistan;
• be between 25 and 65 years of age;
• hold a higher legal education degree;
• possess at least three years of professional legal experience;
• complete at least one year of internship in a notary office.

Internship requirements are waived for certain experienced professionals, including individuals who have served as judges for at least five years, notary assistants, or officials engaged in supervisory roles over notarial activities.

Candidates must also complete mandatory qualification training prior to participating in the competition.

Mandatory Professional Training

The reform introduces compulsory training courses conducted by the Institute for Retraining and Advanced Training of Legal Personnel under the Ministry of Justice.

The training program includes:

• structured coursework in civil and notarial law;
• anti-corruption compliance components;
• practical drafting exercises;
• final examination and certification.

Only candidates holding a valid certificate from this program are eligible to participate in the unified competition.

This additional qualification layer institutionalizes professional preparation and raises entry standards to the profession.

Digitalization and Transparency Safeguards

The framework integrates multiple anti-corruption and transparency mechanisms:

• electronic testing platforms;
• prohibition of unauthorized electronic devices during examinations;
• audio and video recording of practical exams;
• live public broadcasting of the practical stage;
• formalized appeal procedures;
• electronic notification of examination schedules.

These measures reduce discretionary decision-making and strengthen merit-based appointment.

Broader Governance and Business Implications

Although procedural in nature, the reform carries broader institutional significance.

A more transparent and merit-based notarial selection system enhances:

• reliability of notarized transactions;
• legal certainty in property transfers;
• enforceability of inheritance and secured obligations;
• credibility of corporate documentation and shareholder resolutions;
• investor confidence in civil law infrastructure.

Given the central role of notaries in property, corporate, and inheritance matters, professionalization of appointments contributes directly to strengthening rule-of-law foundations.

Uzbekistan’s adoption of a unified competitive and training-based appointment framework for notaries represents a significant institutional modernization step. By combining centralized oversight, digital examination tools, mandatory qualification training, and public transparency mechanisms, the reform reinforces meritocracy and public trust in notarial services.

Uzbekistan has introduced a formal regulatory framework governing the recognition and oversight of international, foreign, and non-governmental accreditation organizations operating within the country. The reform establishes a centralized register and defines clear eligibility criteria for inclusion, signaling a shift toward structured quality assurance governance in the education sector.

The new procedure was adopted by the National Agency for Education Quality under the Administration of the President and reflects broader efforts to modernize accreditation standards and align them with international practices.

Centralized Register of Recognized Accreditation Organizations

Under the new framework, accreditation organizations must be included in an official register in order for their accreditation decisions to be recognized within Uzbekistan.

Inclusion in the register is based on a decision of a dedicated Commission responsible for maintaining the register. Only organizations formally entered into the register may conduct recognized accreditation of educational programs in Uzbekistan.

This introduces regulatory certainty and eliminates ambiguity regarding the status of foreign or private accreditation bodies.

Alignment with National Accreditation Standards

Educational programs accredited by registered organizations are considered positively evaluated under the national accreditation system, which operates under a comprehensive and specialized state accreditation framework.

However, accreditation organizations seeking inclusion must demonstrate that:

• their accreditation criteria, procedures, and international standards do not contradict Uzbekistan’s state accreditation requirements;
• their evaluation methodologies are consistent with national quality assurance principles.

This ensures harmonization rather than parallel or competing accreditation systems.

Eligibility Requirements for Inclusion in the Register

To be included in the register, accreditation organizations must meet several substantive criteria:

1. Possess formal authorization to operate as an accreditation body;
2. Be a full member of recognized international quality assurance networks (membership in at least one reputable global quality assurance association);
3. Ensure transparency, including publicly available information about internationally accredited educational institutions;
4. For international and foreign accreditation organizations, ensure that at least 30% of their total experts are foreign specialists.

These conditions aim to safeguard credibility, independence, and international recognition.

Accelerated Review Procedure and Certification

Applications for inclusion in the register must be reviewed by the Agency within five working days from the date of submission. Following a positive decision, a certificate is issued within three working days.

The certificate confirming inclusion in the register is valid for five years.

This relatively short review period suggests an intention to facilitate market entry while maintaining regulatory oversight.

Oversight and Control Mechanisms

Beyond the inclusion procedure, the framework also establishes supervisory mechanisms over the accreditation activities of registered organizations.

The National Agency retains authority to monitor compliance and ensure that accreditation activities are conducted in accordance with recognized standards.

This strengthens institutional accountability and prevents reputational risks associated with low-quality or non-transparent accreditation practices.

Implications for Universities and Education Investors

The reform has important implications for:

• Foreign universities operating or planning to operate in Uzbekistan;
• International accreditation bodies seeking recognition;
• Private higher education institutions;
• Investors in the education sector;
• Public-private education partnerships.

For educational institutions, accreditation from a registered organization becomes a critical compliance requirement.

For foreign accreditation bodies, the register creates a formal entry pathway into the Uzbek education market.

For investors, the reform enhances regulatory clarity and reduces uncertainty around recognition of international accreditation standards.

Strategic Significance

The introduction of a centralized register represents a shift toward institutionalized quality assurance governance. It supports:

• international integration of Uzbekistan’s education system;
• increased transparency in accreditation;
• protection of students from unrecognized or substandard accreditation;
• alignment with global education quality benchmarks.

At the same time, it strengthens state oversight over non-governmental and foreign actors in the accreditation space.

Uzbekistan’s decision to formalize the recognition of accreditation organizations through a centralized register marks an important step in strengthening educational quality governance. By establishing clear eligibility criteria, rapid review procedures, and ongoing oversight, the framework enhances both credibility and accountability within the higher education system.

For accreditation organizations and education market participants, early compliance and strategic alignment with the new requirements will be essential.

Uzbekistan has adopted a large-scale institutional reform to establish a comprehensive four-stage startup ecosystem covering the full lifecycle of innovation from idea formation to international scaling. The initiative introduces structural, financial, and regulatory mechanisms designed to transform early-stage projects into globally competitive companies.

The framework sets ambitious targets for 2030, including the development of thousands of startup projects, attraction of substantial venture investment, commercialization of youth-led ideas, and the creation of tens of thousands of new jobs.

Strategic Targets Through 2030

The program aims to:

• Increase the number of startup projects to 5,000;
• Attract up to $2 billion in venture capital investments;
• Transform 500 startups into companies valued above $1 million;
• Develop 100 startups exceeding $10 million in valuation;
• Support 25 startups reaching valuations above $100 million;
• Create more than 20,000 jobs;
• Commercialize 2,000 youth startup ideas and bring at least 400 youth projects to international markets.

These targets reflect a shift toward measurable innovation policy rather than declarative support.

A Four-Stage Startup Ecosystem Model

The framework introduces a structured four-stage development model:

1. Idea formation
2. Startup development
3. Market launch
4. Scaling and export

Each stage is supported by dedicated instruments, funding mechanisms, and institutional backing.

Stage I – Formation of Startup Ideas

Beginning from the 2026/2027 academic year, regular “Mastery and Business Hour” sessions will be conducted in educational institutions to generate startup ideas among students. Competitions for the best startup ideas are introduced at district, regional, and national levels, with monetary awards and project support through youth and IT institutions.

A national innovation competition will also provide grants funded by innovation support funds. Crowdsourcing mechanisms will be integrated into state bodies and state-owned enterprises to identify problem-solving startup opportunities.

This stage institutionalizes early pipeline generation at the education level.

Stage II – Development of Startup Projects

From 2027, Research and Development (R&D) Centers equipped with laboratories, digital infrastructure, expert support, and co-working spaces will be established.

Selected high-potential projects may receive:

• R&D vouchers covering up to 50% of MVP development costs (capped at $50,000 equivalent);
• access to university-based accelerators;
• structured incubation and mentorship programs;
• international exchange and internship programs.

The “Universities as Startup Generators” program will integrate venture funds, IT Park, and higher education institutions into a coordinated acceleration system.

Stage III – Launch and Market Entry

Startup projects participating in the “Digital Startups” program will receive IT Park residency status without the requirement to meet minimum export thresholds.

Registered ecosystem participants may receive:

• up to 50% reimbursement for professional training, certification, and participation in prestigious acceleration programs (capped at $20,000 equivalent);
• reimbursement of patenting and intellectual property registration expenses;
• grants and loans for youth-led projects;
• preferential financing instruments through state funds.

This stage significantly reduces entry barriers and transaction costs for early-stage companies.

Stage IV – Scaling and International Expansion

Startups included in the official registry of successful projects may transfer up to $500,000 annually to foreign accounts without separate approvals for establishing foreign subsidiaries or capital contributions, provided tax compliance conditions are met.

A Financial Advisory and Legal Assistance Service will be established within IT Park to support startups free of charge for up to 12 months after registration.

This measure directly addresses cross-border operational flexibility , a key constraint for scaling technology companies.

Financial Architecture of the Ecosystem

The reform mobilizes approximately $160 million and 130 billion UZS in funding for 2026-2027, sourced from:

• International financial institutions;
• National reconstruction and development funds;
• Venture funds including “UzVC” and “Yoshlar Ventures”;
• Innovation support funds;
• Youth entrepreneurship development funds.

This multi-layered funding model combines grants, concessional loans, venture investment, R&D financing, and performance-based instruments.

Governance and Institutional Coordination

An updated Coordination Council for the Startup Ecosystem will oversee KPI monitoring, policy development, regulatory refinement, and ecosystem analysis. Quarterly reviews are mandated to assess implementation effectiveness.

A dedicated financial and legal advisory service will operate under IT Park, strengthening institutional support.

Business and Investment Implications

The framework creates structured opportunities for:

• Venture capital funds;
• Corporate venture arms;
• Technology accelerators and incubators;
• Fintech and digital infrastructure providers;
• Universities and R&D institutions;
• International investors seeking emerging market exposure.

The combination of tax flexibility, export facilitation, co-financing, and venture capital development positions Uzbekistan as a rapidly formalizing startup jurisdiction in Central Asia.

Strategic Significance

The reform signals a transition from fragmented startup support initiatives to an integrated national innovation system. By institutionalizing funding, regulatory facilitation, export flexibility, and education-based pipeline generation, Uzbekistan strengthens its ambition to become a regional technology hub.

For investors and ecosystem participants, early engagement may provide access to state-backed capital flows, international financing channels, and scalable digital market entry platforms.

Conclusion

Uzbekistan’s comprehensive startup ecosystem reform introduces a lifecycle-based support structure backed by significant funding, institutional integration, and export flexibility. The initiative combines youth entrepreneurship development with venture capital mobilization and regulatory facilitation.

For technology entrepreneurs, venture investors, and ecosystem builders, the framework represents a significant expansion of structured opportunity in the country’s innovation landscape.

Uzbekistan has adopted a comprehensive reform package aimed at increasing the efficiency of water resource use in agriculture. The new framework combines fiscal incentives, stricter control mechanisms, and mandatory digital metering to accelerate the transition toward water-saving technologies.

The reform represents one of the most structured attempts to align agricultural productivity with water sustainability, introducing both financial стимулы and enforcement measures.

Differentiated Water Taxation and Subsidy Policy

Starting from 2027, water-use tax rates and subsidy levels will be determined based on the water availability of irrigated land.

A new classification system will annually categorize agricultural producers according to whether they operate in zones with stable or unstable water supply. These lists will be formed by профильные ministries and local authorities and approved at district level.

Key mechanisms include:

• Incentive for water-saving technologies in unstable zones Where water-saving technologies are implemented in areas with unstable water availability, subsidies will be calculated using an increased coefficient (1.25 multiplier).
• Penalty for non-adoption in stable zones Where water-saving technologies are not implemented in zones with stable water availability, the water-use tax will be applied at double the standard rate.

This approach creates a differentiated economic model: reward for efficiency, financial pressure for inaction.

Mandatory Installation of Smart Water Meters

From 2027, certain agricultural users must install “smart” water metering and accounting devices at their own expense:

• at water intake points on rice fields;
• at water intake and discharge points on fish farming lands.

In the absence of metering devices, the water-use tax will also be applied at double the rate.

All metering devices must be integrated into the Ministry of Water Resources’ digital information system for centralized monitoring.

Water limits for aquaculture facilities will only be allocated upon obtaining the relevant conclusion from the Ministry of Water Resources.

This significantly expands digital oversight and traceability in agricultural water management.

Financial Instruments and Credit Support

The reform is supported by a structured financial package designed to accelerate adoption of water-saving technologies, including:

• concessional credit mechanisms;
• staged subsidy disbursement tied to installation and performance;
• interest compensation models;
• integration of project financing into state and commercial banking systems.

Subsidies may be partially advanced prior to installation and finalized after commissioning and verification. In some cases, repayment obligations apply if conditions are not met.

This hybrid structure combines state support with accountability mechanisms.

Strengthened State Oversight and Digital Control

Oversight mechanisms are significantly reinforced through:

• expansion of inspection authority in the water sector;
• establishment and strengthening of monitoring divisions;
• introduction of body cameras and drones for inspection purposes;
• centralized integration of monitoring data into state information systems 1.

Water use will increasingly be monitored through digital and automated systems rather than manual reporting.

The reform also provides for enhanced compliance checks in water-intensive agricultural sectors.

Implications for Agribusiness and Investors

The reform has direct implications for:

• large agricultural producers;
• rice and aquaculture operators;
• irrigation equipment suppliers;
• fintech and agri-finance institutions;
• digital water monitoring technology providers;
• ESG-focused investors.

For producers, the cost of non-compliance increases significantly through double taxation mechanisms.

For technology suppliers and contractors, the reform creates substantial demand for:

• drip irrigation systems,
• sprinkler systems,
• smart metering infrastructure,
• digital integration services,
• monitoring and telemetry solutions.

Financial institutions may also benefit from expanded credit demand linked to mandatory technology adoption.

Strategic Significance

Water scarcity remains one of the most critical structural challenges in Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. By linking taxation, subsidies, and digital monitoring into a unified framework, the government moves from declarative sustainability goals toward enforceable economic instruments.

The reform signals a shift from volume-based water allocation to efficiency-based regulation.

For agribusinesses, early adoption of water-saving technologies will not only mitigate fiscal exposure but also position them competitively in an increasingly regulated and digitally monitored agricultural environment.

Conclusion

The new water resource reform introduces a dual-track model: financial incentives for efficiency and fiscal penalties for non-compliance, supported by mandatory digital metering and enhanced oversight.

For the agricultural sector, this represents both a regulatory tightening and a modernization opportunity. Businesses that proactively invest in water-saving technologies and digital compliance infrastructure are likely to benefit from subsidy support and reduced long-term tax exposure.

Uzbekistan has launched a nationwide program to support low-income families through the construction of small solar power plants in 903 designated “challenging” mahallas. While the initiative is positioned as a poverty-reduction measure, it also represents one of the most significant distributed renewable energy deployment programs at the community level, creating substantial opportunities for the energy, construction, financial, and infrastructure sectors.

The program integrates social policy with energy transition objectives, positioning solar generation as a revenue-generating asset for local communities.

Solar Infrastructure as a Revenue-Generating Community Asset

Under the new framework, small solar power plants with a capacity of 300–500 kW will be constructed in designated high-poverty mahallas. These facilities are expressly characterized as income-generating assets, with electricity sales revenues intended to support local economic development.

The implementation is coordinated by the Ministry of Energy in cooperation with the National Energy Efficiency Agency, with centralized financial administration mechanisms and treasury oversight.

A dedicated regulatory act is to establish detailed procedures for:

• project design and state expertise;
• contractor selection through competitive mechanisms;
• construction and commissioning;
• operational management;
• revenue distribution mechanisms.

This signals structured institutional governance rather than ad hoc implementation.

Scale of Financing and Investment Mobilization

The program is supported by significant public financing allocations, including:

• USD 110 million from national reconstruction and development funds allocated on a non-interest, non-repayable basis for solar installations;
• proposals to attract an additional USD 120 million from international financial institutions for further expansion of solar infrastructure;
• substantial domestic budget allocations for poverty reduction and infrastructure development in 2026.

The financing structure combines:

• direct state funding,
• concessional resources,
• international borrowing,
• and large-scale commercial banking involvement.

For the private sector, this signals a pipeline of renewable projects supported by sovereign-level commitment and institutional backing.

Land Allocation and Regulatory Facilitation

Regional authorities are tasked with allocating land plots for the construction of solar power plants under permanent use rights. Environmental review and cadastral documentation are to be carried out free of charge.

This significantly reduces entry barriers and transaction costs for project execution, accelerating implementation timelines and improving bankability.

Integration with Broader Economic and Infrastructure Reform

The solar initiative forms part of a comprehensive poverty-reduction and employment strategy targeting:

• legalization of informal employment,
• development of micro-industrial zones,
• infrastructure upgrades in 903 mahallas and 37 priority districts,
• large-scale credit programs for family entrepreneurship,
• interest-rate compensation mechanisms,
• development of agro-processing and value-added activities.

This ecosystem approach means that solar infrastructure is not isolated, yet it is embedded within broader local economic transformation programs.

Business and Investment Implications

Although designed as a social policy instrument, the program creates tangible commercial opportunities for:

EPC and Renewable Energy Developers

• Engineering, procurement and construction of 300–500 kW distributed solar plants at scale;
• Long-term operation and maintenance contracts;
• Potential clustering across multiple regions.

Equipment Suppliers

• Solar panels,
• Inverters,
• Mounting systems,
• Storage solutions (if integrated),
• Smart metering and grid integration technologies.

Financial Institutions

• Co-financing structures;
• International financial institution participation;
• Risk-sharing mechanisms;
• ESG-aligned lending products.

Energy Service Companies

• Energy management services;
• Revenue optimization;
• Hybrid models integrating solar with agricultural or micro-industrial use.

ESG and Impact Investment Dimension

The program aligns with:

• energy transition goals,
• decentralized renewable deployment,
• climate adaptation in rural areas,
• inclusive economic development,
• community-based asset ownership models.

For ESG-focused investors and development partners, the initiative provides a framework combining measurable social impact with renewable energy generation.

Governance, Oversight and Accountability

The framework establishes clear responsibility mechanisms at ministerial and regional levels, with quarterly reporting and oversight obligations. Centralized treasury accounting and audit supervision are embedded in the structure.

Such institutional anchoring reduces implementation risk and enhances credibility for private and international partners.

Conclusion

Uzbekistan’s program to install small solar power plants in 903 mahallas represents more than a social support measure. It is a structured, state-backed distributed renewable energy initiative integrated into a broader regional development and poverty-reduction strategy.

For the private sector, this creates a significant pipeline of solar EPC projects, equipment demand, financial structuring opportunities, and ESG-aligned investment prospects. Early engagement and strategic positioning may allow businesses to participate in one of the country’s most ambitious community-level energy transformation programs.

Uzbekistan has introduced a new regulatory framework requiring large investment projects to undergo mandatory anti-corruption review and assessment of their impact on the competitive environment. The initiative reflects the government’s continued focus on transparency, integrity, and fair competition in the preparation and implementation of strategically significant investments.

The new framework applies across the full lifecycle of qualifying projects from early planning and financing to procurement, implementation, monitoring, and operation.

Scope of Application: Which Projects Are Covered

The requirements apply to large investment projects falling within one or more of the following categories:

• projects financed from the State Budget or state-targeted funds;
• projects implemented under public-private partnership (PPP) arrangements;
• projects involving foreign investment or international financial institutions where state guarantees, privileges, or other forms of state support are provided.

This broad scope ensures that projects benefiting from public resources or state support are subject to enhanced oversight and integrity safeguards.

Anti-Corruption Review: Purpose and Content

The anti-corruption review is designed as a systematic process for identifying and analyzing corruption risks at all key stages of a project, including:

• planning and structuring;
• financing arrangements;
• procurement procedures;
• implementation and operation;
• ongoing monitoring and oversight.

The review is conducted by the Anti-Corruption Agency and includes the development of practical recommendations aimed at eliminating or mitigating identified risks. The focus is not only on detecting violations, but also on preventing structural vulnerabilities that could give rise to corrupt practices.

Assessment of Impact on the Competitive Environment

In parallel with the anti-corruption review, large investment projects are subject to an assessment of their impact on competition. This assessment is carried out by the authority responsible for competition development and consumer protection.

The assessment examines whether a project:

• creates unjustified advantages for specific market participants;
• restricts or distorts competition;
• contributes to the formation or strengthening of monopolistic positions;
• undermines equal market access conditions.

Where risks are identified, measures are proposed to ensure fair competition and a level playing field for all economic entities.

Institutional Roles and Accountability

The framework clearly delineates institutional responsibilities:

• the Anti-Corruption Agency is responsible for conducting anti-corruption expertise and monitoring implementation of recommendations;
• the competition authority conducts competitive impact assessments and proposes corrective measures;
• state bodies responsible for approving or financing projects are required to take the findings of both reviews into account in their decision-making.

The conclusions of the anti-corruption review and competition assessment are subject to mandatory consideration when decisions are taken on project approval, funding, or continuation.

Integration into the Investment Decision-Making Process

The introduction of mandatory reviews embeds integrity and competition analysis directly into the investment governance framework. This approach ensures that risks are addressed proactively, rather than after issues arise during implementation.

For investors and project sponsors, this means that compliance with anti-corruption and competition standards becomes an integral part of project preparation and documentation.

Implications for Investors and Project Sponsors

The new requirements have practical implications for:

• foreign and domestic investors;
• PPP project sponsors;
• lenders and international financial institutions;
• EPC contractors and procurement participants.

Project stakeholders should be prepared to:

• disclose relevant project structures and financing arrangements;
• demonstrate transparency in procurement and contracting;
• incorporate compliance and risk-mitigation measures into project design.

While the framework introduces additional review layers, it also enhances predictability, legal certainty, and long-term sustainability of large investments.

Strategic Significance of the Reform

By formalizing anti-corruption and competition review mechanisms for major investment projects, Uzbekistan strengthens investor confidence and aligns its investment governance practices with international standards.

The reform supports the creation of a transparent, competitive, and integrity-driven investment environment, particularly for large-scale projects with significant economic and social impact.

Conclusion

The introduction of mandatory anti-corruption and competition review for large investment projects marks an important step in Uzbekistan’s investment and governance reforms. By embedding integrity, accountability, and fair competition into the investment process, the framework enhances the quality of public decision-making and reduces systemic risks.

For investors, early engagement with these requirements will be key to ensuring smooth project approval and successful long-term implementation in Uzbekistan’s evolving investment landscape.

Uzbekistan has adopted a revised set of rules governing the provision of telecommunications services, introducing a range of consumer-focused changes aimed at improving transparency, accessibility, and protection of subscribers’ rights. The updated framework reflects the state’s broader digital policy objectives and responds to practical issues faced by users of mobile and telecommunications services.

The new rules will enter into force after a transition period, allowing operators and service providers time to adapt their internal procedures and systems.

Strengthening Subscriber Protection in Mobile Services

One of the key changes concerns the treatment of mobile subscribers with insufficient funds on their accounts. Under the updated rules, the period after which a mobile services agreement may be terminated due to lack of funds has been significantly extended. Instead of a short suspension period, mobile numbers may now remain inactive for up to one year before being transferred to a non-existent status.

This change provides subscribers with greater flexibility and reduces the risk of losing a mobile number due to temporary financial or personal circumstances.

Free Change of Tariff Plans

Subscribers are now entitled to change their existing tariff plan free of charge to any other available tariff, subject to limited exceptions. Restrictions apply only to certain tariff plans specifically designed for defined groups of users or limited geographic areas.

This reform enhances consumer choice and prevents unjustified financial barriers when switching between service packages.

Mandatory Advance Notification of Tariff Changes

Telecommunications operators are now required to notify subscribers of any changes to existing tariff conditions at least 15 days in advance. Notification must be provided through accessible channels, including:

• mass media,
• official websites, or
• SMS notifications.

This obligation increases transparency and allows subscribers sufficient time to assess changes and make informed decisions regarding continued use of services.

Expanded On-Site and Mobile Service Provision

To improve access to telecommunications services, particularly for individuals unable to visit service centers, the revised rules introduce on-site service provision at a subscriber’s place of residence. In remote and hard-to-reach areas, mobile service units will be deployed to ensure availability of telecommunications services.

This measure is especially relevant for elderly users, persons with disabilities, and residents of rural areas.

Protection Against Unauthorised Charges

The new rules introduce clear prohibitions aimed at protecting subscribers from unexpected charges. In particular:

• services initially provided free of charge may not be converted into paid services without the subscriber’s explicit consent;
• when charging subscription fees or service fees to individual subscribers, operators are prohibited from allowing account balances to fall into negative status (debt).

These provisions are designed to prevent involuntary indebtedness and unauthorized monetization of services.

Free Access to Presidential Hotline Services

Subscribers are guaranteed the right to make free, round-the-clock calls to the trust hotline of the Presidential Virtual Reception. This ensures uninterrupted public access to an important channel for communication with state authorities.

Faster Mobile Number Portability

The procedure for transferring mobile subscriber numbers between operators has been significantly accelerated. Number portability must now be completed at service points within 20 minutes, replacing the previous, much longer processing timeframe.

This change enhances competition among mobile operators and improves user convenience.

New Rules for Subscription-Based Content Services

The revised framework introduces stricter rules for paid content services offered on a subscription basis. Key safeguards include:

• activation of services only through mobile operator applications or USSD codes;
• prohibition of automatic activation without explicit subscriber confirmation;
• mandatory default inactive status for all paid content services provided by content providers.

These requirements aim to eliminate unauthorized subscriptions and improve control over digital content spending.

Conclusion

The updated rules for the provision of telecommunications services mark a significant step toward strengthening consumer rights and modernizing the regulatory environment in Uzbekistan’s telecommunications sector. By enhancing transparency, preventing unauthorized charges, improving service accessibility, and accelerating key procedures, the reforms create a more balanced relationship between operators and subscribers.

For telecommunications companies, the changes require careful review of billing systems, customer communication processes, and content-service activation mechanisms. For subscribers, the new framework provides greater protection, choice, and convenience in the use of telecommunications services.

Uzbekistan has taken an important step toward regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by introducing a comprehensive legal framework that defines AI, sets principles for its use, and establishes administrative liability for violations arising from its application. The recent legislative amendments reflect the government’s intention to balance technological development with the protection of fundamental rights, data security, and public trust.

These changes are particularly relevant for businesses operating in the technology, digital services, fintech, media, and data-driven sectors.

Defining Artificial Intelligence and State Policy Priorities

For the first time, Uzbek legislation formally defines artificial intelligence and outlines the key directions of state policy in this field. AI is treated not merely as a technological tool, but as a regulated element of information systems and digital infrastructure.

State policy in the AI sphere is focused on:

• promoting innovation and the development of digital technologies;
• ensuring safe, ethical, and lawful use of AI systems;
• preventing harm to individuals, society, and the state;
• protecting personal data and other legally protected interests.

This approach signals a shift toward proactive governance of emerging technologies rather than reactive regulation.

Rules for the Use of AI in Information Systems

The amendments introduce general requirements for the use of AI in the creation and operation of information resources and information systems. AI-based systems must be designed and used in a way that does not cause harm to a person’s life, health, freedom, honor, dignity, or other inalienable rights.

In practical terms, this places responsibility on developers, operators, and users of AI systems to:

• assess potential risks associated with AI deployment;
• ensure transparency and lawful data processing;
• prevent discriminatory or harmful outcomes produced by automated systems.

Businesses using AI in customer interaction, decision-making, profiling, or content distribution should pay particular attention to these principles.

Liability for Violations Involving AI and Personal Data

A key element of the new framework is the introduction of administrative liability for violations related to the use of AI technologies, particularly in connection with personal data.

Administrative responsibility applies where AI is used for:

• unlawful processing of personal data;
• dissemination of personal data through the internet or mass media without legal grounds;
• other violations of data protection requirements facilitated by AI technologies.

Sanctions include significant administrative fines, the possibility of administrative arrest in serious cases, and confiscation of technical equipment used to commit the violation. This underscores that responsibility extends beyond abstract system errors to concrete accountability for misuse.

Compliance Implications for Businesses

The new rules have direct implications for companies that:

• develop or deploy AI-based software or platforms;
• process large volumes of personal data using automated tools;
• use AI for analytics, monitoring, facial recognition, or behavioral profiling;
• distribute AI-generated content through online channels.

Businesses are expected to review their AI governance frameworks, data protection policies, and internal controls to ensure alignment with the new legal requirements. This includes documenting lawful grounds for data processing, implementing safeguards against misuse, and ensuring that AI systems are subject to human oversight where appropriate.

Strategic Significance of the Reform

By introducing a legal definition of AI and linking its use to accountability and data protection, Uzbekistan positions itself among jurisdictions that are actively shaping the regulatory environment for emerging technologies. The framework promotes responsible innovation while signaling that technological advancement must not come at the expense of individual rights and legal certainty.

For investors and technology companies, this provides greater predictability and clarity regarding regulatory expectations in the Uzbek market.

Conclusion

The introduction of a regulatory framework governing artificial intelligence and liability for its misuse represents a significant milestone in Uzbekistan’s digital regulation landscape. By combining innovation-friendly policies with enforceable safeguards, the new rules aim to support sustainable technological development while protecting personal data and fundamental rights.

For businesses, early adaptation and proactive compliance will be key to leveraging AI technologies responsibly and securely in Uzbekistan’s evolving digital economy.

Uzbekistan has adopted a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the procedure for making enforcement inscriptions by notaries. The new rules significantly modernize the enforcement mechanism by expanding digital formats, introducing biometric identification, and clarifying procedural safeguards, while preserving the principle of uncontested enforcement. These reforms aim to improve efficiency in debt recovery, reduce court caseloads, and strengthen legal certainty for creditors and debtors alike.

Legal Nature and Purpose of Enforcement Inscriptions

An enforcement inscription is a notarial act that confirms an undisputed monetary or property obligation and serves as a basis for compulsory enforcement without recourse to court proceedings. It allows creditors to initiate enforcement directly, provided that statutory conditions are met.

The updated framework reinforces the role of notaries as quasi-judicial actors, entrusted with verifying the legality, clarity, and uncontested nature of claims prior to issuing enforcement inscriptions.

Forms and Modes of Making Enforcement Inscriptions

The regulation significantly expands the permissible formats for performing enforcement inscriptions. They may now be carried out:

• At the premises of a notary office;
• Remotely via videoconferencing;
• In electronic form;
• At a location chosen by the applicant, through mobile notarial services.

This flexibility improves access to notarial services and reflects broader digital transformation efforts in the justice system.

Electronic Documents and Non-Participation of Applicants

Documents establishing debt obligations in favor of legal entities may be prepared by a notary in electronic form. In such cases, the applicant is not required to participate in the drafting or approval of the enforcement document, provided that the underlying obligation is duly confirmed by the submitted materials.

This approach reduces procedural friction, particularly in standardized commercial claims.

Videoconference-Based Enforcement Inscriptions

Where enforcement inscriptions are made via videoconference:

• This fact must be explicitly indicated in the notarial certification text;
• The entire process must be recorded through mandatory audio and video recording;
• Both the notary and the participating party must be clearly visible on video.

During the session, the notary is required to:

• Explain the type of notarial act being performed;
• Clarify its content, legal meaning, and consequences;
• Ensure that the applicant is fully familiarized with the document text.

These requirements are designed to protect parties’ rights and prevent abuse in remote procedures.

Identification and Biometric Verification

The framework introduces differentiated identification methods depending on the mode of execution:

• When performed at a notary office or through mobile services, the applicant’s fingerprints are scanned and recorded in the automated notarial information system.
• When performed via videoconference or in electronic form, confirmation is carried out using Face-ID biometric verification.

The use of biometric tools strengthens identity verification and minimizes fraud risks.

Conditions for Issuing an Enforcement Inscription

An enforcement inscription may only be made if both of the following conditions are met:

• The submitted documents unequivocally confirm the debtor’s obligation or indebtedness to the claimant;
• No more than three years have elapsed since the creditor’s right to bring a claim arose due to non-performance or improper performance of the obligation.

Failure to meet either condition precludes issuance of an enforcement inscription.

Types of Claims Eligible for Enforcement Inscriptions

Notaries are authorized to issue enforcement inscriptions for certain uncontested civil-law claims up to a specified statutory monetary threshold. These include, in particular, claims:

• Based on notarized transactions;
• Seeking enforcement against movable property pledged as security under a notarized agreement;
• Related to the recovery of rent, mandatory contributions, and payments from owners of premises in multi-apartment buildings;
• Related to outstanding debts for utility and communication services.

This list reflects areas where disputes are typically formal rather than substantive.

Legal Effect and Enforcement Period

An enforcement inscription may be submitted for compulsory enforcement within three years from the date of its issuance, unless legislation provides otherwise.

Once issued, it has the same legal force as an enforcement document and may be executed through enforcement authorities without judicial involvement.

Procedural Safeguards and Accountability

The regulation emphasizes procedural integrity and accountability by requiring:

• Mandatory recording and storage of video materials for remote procedures;
• Detailed explanation of rights and consequences by the notary;
• Use of automated information systems for traceability and audit purposes.

Notaries remain personally responsible for ensuring compliance with the legal requirements governing enforcement inscriptions.

The updated procedure for making enforcement inscriptions by notaries represents a major step in the modernization of Uzbekistan’s enforcement and notarial systems. By integrating digital technologies, biometric verification, and remote participation while maintaining strict conditions for uncontested claims, the framework strikes a balance between efficiency and legal protection.

These reforms enhance creditor confidence, reduce pressure on courts, and strengthen the overall effectiveness of civil enforcement mechanisms, while aligning notarial practice with contemporary standards of digital justice.

Uzbekistan continues to advance reforms aimed at simplifying trade procedures and strengthening the country’s role as a regional transit hub. Recent presidential amendments have expanded the mandate of the Interagency Council for the Development of Transit Potential, reinforcing its strategic role in coordinating transit policy, aligning national procedures with international standards, and ensuring the effective use of Uzbekistan’s transport and logistics infrastructure.

These changes form part of broader administrative and economic reforms focused on trade facilitation, digitalization, and deeper integration into global trade systems.

Strategic Context of the Reform

Uzbekistan’s geographic position at the crossroads of major international transport corridors gives it significant transit potential. The recent amendments are designed to:

• Improve the efficiency of cross-border movement of goods;
• Reduce administrative and procedural barriers in transit operations;
• Strengthen institutional coordination in the transport sector;
• Align national transit practices with international norms, particularly those applied within the multilateral trading system.

The expanded responsibilities of the Interagency Council reflect the growing importance of transit policy in national economic development.

New Responsibilities of the Interagency Council

Under the updated framework, the Interagency Council has been entrusted with additional tasks aimed at improving the governance and regulation of transit operations.

Modernization of Transit Procedures

The Council is now responsible for:

• Improving transit procedures in line with recommendations of the World Customs Organization;
• Approving transit-related instructions;
• Coordinating the activities of state authorities involved in transit operations.

A particular emphasis is placed on the use of digital technologies to streamline procedures, enhance transparency, and reduce processing times.

International Coordination and WTO Engagement

The Council has also been tasked with:

• Reviewing inquiries, proposals, and requests from World Trade Organization member states related to transit transportation;
• Notifying WTO members of the transit procedures applied in Uzbekistan.

This role strengthens Uzbekistan’s institutional capacity to meet international transparency and notification obligations and enhances predictability for foreign trade partners.

Trade Facilitation and Institutional Coordination

By centralizing responsibility for transit-related coordination, the reform aims to:

• Eliminate fragmentation among government agencies;
• Ensure consistent application of transit rules across transport modes;
• Improve responsiveness to issues raised by international partners and domestic stakeholders.

The Interagency Council serves as a platform for policy alignment across customs, transport, trade, and digital governance bodies.

Extension of Zero Import Customs Duty for Selected Raw Materials

In addition to transit-related changes, the amendments also extend the application of a zero import customs duty rate for certain raw materials and semi-finished products used in industrial production.

The extended preferential treatment applies to specific categories of surface-active organic substances, detergents, and cleaning agents (excluding certain soap-based products). The extension replaces an earlier, shorter validity period and provides manufacturers with greater regulatory certainty.

Economic and Industrial Impact

The extension of zero-duty import treatment is expected to:

• Reduce production costs for domestic manufacturers;
• Support the expansion of competitive industrial output;
• Improve access to essential inputs for downstream industries;
• Enhance the overall investment attractiveness of the manufacturing sector.

Combined with improved transit procedures, these measures contribute to a more favorable trade and production environment.

Uzbekistan has adopted significant legislative amendments aimed at further accelerating market reforms and aligning national economic regulation with international trade standards in the context of its accession to the World Trade Organization. One of the most notable outcomes of these reforms is the expansion of private sector participation in markets that were traditionally subject to strong state control specifically, the trade in scrap metal and natural gas.

The reforms are designed to foster competition, dismantle exclusive market privileges, and establish a more open and transparent economic environment.

Reform Rationale and Policy Objectives

The legislative amendments pursue several interrelated policy objectives:

• Harmonization of national legislation with international trade and competition norms;
• Elimination of exclusive or preferential rights previously granted to large state-owned enterprises;
• Expansion of private sector participation in strategic commodity markets;
• Creation of equal and non-discriminatory conditions for market participants.

These changes reflect a shift from state-dominated market structures toward competitive, license-based regulation consistent with WTO principles.

Liberalization of the Scrap Metal Market

Under the updated legal framework, private entities are now permitted to participate in:

• Procurement and production of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap and waste;
• Processing and recycling of scrap metal;
• Sale and distribution of scrap materials within the domestic market.

Historically, these activities were largely concentrated in the hands of state-controlled operators. The removal of exclusive rights enables private businesses to enter the sector on equal legal footing, subject to regulatory oversight.

This liberalization is expected to:

• Improve efficiency in scrap collection and recycling;
• Increase supply for domestic metallurgical and manufacturing industries;
• Promote environmentally responsible waste management practices;
• Reduce informal or shadow market activity.

Opening of Wholesale and Retail Natural Gas Trade

The amendments also allow private sector participation in the wholesale and retail trade of natural gas, marking a substantial transformation in energy market regulation.

Private companies may now engage in gas trading activities alongside state actors, provided they comply with licensing, technical, and safety requirements. This reform introduces competition into a sector traditionally characterized by centralized control and limited market access.

The opening of the gas market aims to:

• Improve service quality and supply reliability;
• Enhance pricing transparency;
• Encourage private investment in gas infrastructure and related services;
• Support gradual market-based pricing mechanisms.

Introduction of Licensing as a Regulatory Safeguard

To balance market liberalization with public and economic interests, the reforms introduce licensing requirements for:

• Production, procurement, processing, and sale of scrap metal and metal waste;
• Wholesale and retail trade of natural gas.

Corresponding amendments to legislation on licensing, permits, and state duties establish a structured regulatory framework that ensures:

• Compliance with safety, environmental, and technical standards;
• Accountability of market participants;
• State oversight without restricting fair competition.

Licensing serves as a regulatory tool rather than a barrier to entry, supporting controlled liberalization.

Impact on Competition and Investment Climate

The removal of exclusive rights and expansion of private sector access significantly strengthen competition in both markets. The reforms are expected to:

• Lower entry barriers for domestic and foreign investors;
• Stimulate innovation and operational efficiency;
• Diversify supply chains;
• Increase investor confidence in regulatory predictability.

From an international perspective, these changes reinforce Uzbekistan’s commitment to market openness and rule-based economic governance.

Uzbekistan has introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the conduct of clinical trials for medical devices. The newly approved rules establish clear criteria for when clinical trials are required, define the decision-making process for initiating such trials, and regulate the roles of regulatory authorities, experts, clinical institutions, and applicants. The framework aims to ensure patient safety, scientific validity, and regulatory transparency while facilitating access to innovative medical technologies.

Medical Devices Exempt from Clinical Trials

The regulatory framework identifies specific categories of medical devices that may undergo state registration without conducting clinical trials. These include:

• Medical devices classified as low-risk (Class I) under the safety classification system;
• In vitro diagnostic devices that have been prequalified by the World Health Organization or registered with WHO support;
• Medical devices for which clinical trials have already been conducted in Uzbekistan;
• Certain devices recognized based on prior circulation and proven safety and effectiveness, subject to the submission of supporting scientific evidence.

This differentiated approach allows regulators to focus clinical trial requirements on higher-risk devices while accelerating market access for well-established or low-risk products.

Decision-Making Authority and Regulatory Oversight

The decision on whether a medical device must undergo clinical trials is taken by an Expert Council operating under the Ministry of Health. This decision is based on a recommendation from the state body responsible for the safety of pharmaceutical and medical products.

Clinical trials are conducted depending on the safety class of the medical device and must involve no fewer than 20 clinical trial subjects, with the possibility of multi-center trials for higher-risk devices. This ensures statistically meaningful results while maintaining proportionality.

Integration with the Medical Device Registration Process

The clinical trial framework is closely integrated with the broader system for the state registration of medical devices. After a positive conclusion at the initial expert review stage, laboratory testing and specialized expert examination of the medical device are carried out simultaneously.

An independent expert engaged in the specialized examination evaluates:

• The suitability and accreditation of the clinical base where the trial will be conducted;
• The appropriateness of the clinical trial design;
• The use of modern and advanced methods for assessing safety and effectiveness.

This parallel review model reduces regulatory timelines while preserving rigorous scientific assessment.

Ethical Review and Protection of Trial Subjects

A key safeguard within the framework is the mandatory ethical review conducted by a designated ethics committee. Clinical trials may not commence without a positive ethical opinion confirming that the study is ethically justified and that the rights, dignity, and safety of trial participants are adequately protected.

Participation in clinical trials is strictly voluntary and based on informed written consent. Special rules apply when trials involve minors or persons with limited legal capacity, requiring consent from legal representatives. Trial participants retain the right to withdraw at any stage without adverse consequences for their medical care.

Conduct of Clinical Trials and Monitoring

Clinical trials must be conducted in approved medical institutions by qualified investigators in accordance with recognized good clinical practice standards. Applicants are responsible for:

• Providing the medical device and related documentation;
• Ensuring insurance coverage for potential harm to trial subjects;
• Monitoring and auditing trial quality and compliance.

Adverse events must be promptly documented and reported. Where serious risks to life or health arise, the competent authority is empowered to suspend or terminate the clinical trial.

Reporting, Final Review, and Market Authorization

Upon completion of a clinical trial, a clinical trial report is prepared and submitted for final expert review. The report is assessed for consistency with the approved trial protocol and supporting documentation.

Based on the final expert conclusion, the Expert Council decides whether the medical device may be authorized for use in medical practice or whether registration should be refused. This final decision ensures that only devices meeting established safety and performance standards reach the healthcare system.

Practical Implications for Manufacturers and Importers

For manufacturers, importers, and distributors of medical devices, the new framework provides:

• Greater clarity on regulatory expectations;
• Predictable pathways for registration depending on device risk;
• Enhanced alignment with international standards;
• Improved protection against regulatory uncertainty.

At the same time, the framework reinforces public confidence by prioritizing patient safety and evidence-based decision-making.

The introduction of a structured and risk-based system for conducting clinical trials of medical devices represents an important milestone in the development of Uzbekistan’s healthcare regulation. By combining scientific rigor, ethical oversight, and administrative efficiency, the framework supports innovation while ensuring that medical devices used in practice meet high standards of safety and effectiveness

Uzbekistan has taken a significant step toward the digitalization of legal services by introducing a formal procedure for performing notarial actions remotely through videoconferencing. The newly approved regulatory framework establishes comprehensive rules for conducting notarial acts without the physical presence of individuals or representatives of legal entities at a notary office, while maintaining legal certainty, confidentiality, and procedural safeguards.

This development reflects a broader policy objective of expanding access to justice, improving service efficiency, and integrating modern information technologies into the notarial system.

Scope and Applicability of Remote Notarial Services

The approved procedure applies to notaries and their assistants, trainees, and secretaries, as well as all participants involved in a notarial act conducted via videoconferencing. All persons involved are required to ensure strict confidentiality of information obtained in the course of the notarial process.

Remote notarial actions may be performed in relation to those acts permitted under notarial legislation, provided that identity verification, capacity assessment, and procedural integrity can be ensured through digital means.

Digital Platforms and Technical Infrastructure

Remote notarization is carried out through the state electronic portal “e-notarius.uz” in conjunction with the automated information system “Notarius.” These platforms serve as the core technological infrastructure for submitting applications, verifying identities, exchanging documents, scheduling notarial sessions, and recording completed notarial acts.

Notarial actions performed via videoconference are confirmed electronically, and all relevant data is recorded in the system, ensuring traceability and legal validity.

Application and Review Process

To initiate a remote notarial action, an applicant must register on the electronic portal and verify their identity using the available authentication mechanisms. The applicant selects a notary through the system and submits an electronic application specifying the requested notarial act and providing the required information.

The notary reviews the application within a defined timeframe and informs the applicant electronically of whether the application is complete or requires correction. Notifications may be delivered through electronic channels and, where applicable, via the applicant’s registered phone number.

If deficiencies are identified, the applicant is given an opportunity to remedy them. Failure to do so within the prescribed period results in refusal of the application in accordance with notarial legislation.

Timing and Payment Procedures

Once the application is accepted, information regarding the notarial act is entered into the system, and the applicable fees are calculated automatically. Payment invoices are generated and sent electronically to the applicant.

The timeframe for performing the notarial act is determined by the notary and may not exceed the maximum period established by the procedure. Applicants are also granted limited flexibility to request an alternative time slot, subject to agreement with the notary.

Identity Verification and Legal Capacity Assessment

A central element of the remote notarial framework is the verification of identity and legal capacity. Identification is conducted using modern information technologies, including biometric verification tools such as facial recognition, as well as checks against relevant state information resources.

During the videoconference, the notary personally communicates with the parties to assess their legal capacity, understanding of the transaction, and voluntariness of consent. Where doubts arise regarding capacity, mental condition, or external pressure, the notary may suspend or refuse the notarial action and, where required, take additional verification measures.

Requirements for the Videoconference Environment

Strict requirements apply to the conditions under which videoconferencing is conducted. During the notarial session:

• No unauthorized persons may be present at the location of the parties;
• The environment must be quiet, well-lit, and suitable for clear communication;
• The video image must be clear and uninterrupted.

The notary may request a visual confirmation of the surrounding space to ensure compliance with these requirements.

Finalization and Legal Effect of Notarial Acts

Once the draft notarial document is ready, the notary explains to the parties their rights and obligations, as well as the content and legal consequences of the notarial act. The completed act is recorded in the system, assigned a registration number, and electronically certified.

Video recordings of the notarial session are automatically created and stored in the system for the period prescribed by law. These recordings serve as evidence of the performance and certification of the notarial act.

Certified documents are subsequently delivered to the parties either in person, through courier services, or by other legally permitted means.

Legal Significance and Practical Impact

The introduction of remote notarial actions represents a major modernization of Uzbekistan’s notarial system. It reduces the need for physical presence, increases accessibility for individuals and businesses, and enhances procedural efficiency, particularly for cross-regional and time-sensitive transactions.

At the same time, the framework preserves the fundamental principles of notarial activity, including personal verification, legal certainty, confidentiality, and protection of parties’ rights.

Uzbekistan has taken an important step toward strengthening the regulatory and methodological foundations of pharmaceutical quality control by formalizing the procedure for developing general and individual pharmacopoeial articles and integrating them into the State Pharmacopoeia.

This development addresses a critical aspect of pharmaceutical regulation: ensuring that quality standards for medicines and medical products remain scientifically sound, up to date, and aligned with international best practices, even in cases where specific methods are not yet reflected in the national pharmacopoeia.

The Role of the Pharmacopoeia in Quality Assurance

The pharmacopoeia serves as a core regulatory instrument, defining mandatory quality requirements for medicinal products, substances, excipients, and methods of quality control. Within this system, pharmacopoeial articles are divided into general and individual standards, each serving a distinct regulatory purpose.

General pharmacopoeial articles establish uniform analytical methods, requirements for reagents, indicators, reference standards, and testing approaches applicable across multiple categories of medicinal products. Individual pharmacopoeial articles, by contrast, define specific quality indicators and control methods for particular medicines, raw materials, excipients, or medical products.

Both types of articles are subject to periodic review, reflecting the dynamic nature of pharmaceutical science, manufacturing technologies, and quality control methodologies.

Institutional Framework for Development

The procedure for developing pharmacopoeial articles in Uzbekistan is structured as a multi-level, expert-driven process. Responsibility is distributed among a secretariat, working groups, specialized expert commissions, editorial boards, and editorial councils, with the involvement of professionals from the Center for Pharmaceutical Product Safety under the Ministry of Health.

This layered governance model is designed to ensure scientific rigor, transparency, and consistency throughout the drafting and approval process, while also allowing for the engagement of external experts from other state bodies, academic institutions, and specialized organizations.

Planning, Transparency, and Stakeholder Input

Development of pharmacopoeial articles is carried out on the basis of an annual plan approved by the leadership of the Center. This plan takes into account proposals submitted by applicants and other interested stakeholders, as well as broader developments in science, medicine, and pharmaceutical technology.

Applicants may include holders of registration certificates for medicinal products or medical devices, while interested parties encompass pharmaceutical organizations, research institutions, and higher education establishments. This approach creates a structured channel for industry and scientific input while maintaining regulatory oversight.

Information on the initiation and completion of work on pharmacopoeial articles is made publicly available, reinforcing transparency and predictability in the standard-setting process.

Scientific and International Foundations

A defining feature of the framework is its explicit reliance on scientific evidence and international harmonization. Pharmacopoeial articles are developed on the basis of:

• results of scientific research, testing, and measurement;
• contemporary achievements in medicine, pharmacy, and related sciences;
• practical experience gained from the application of new medicinal products, medical devices, and quality control methods;
• leading global pharmacopoeias, international and regional standards, and recommendations of international organizations involved in pharmaceutical quality control.

This orientation ensures that national standards do not evolve in isolation, but rather remain compatible with globally recognized quality benchmarks.

Technical and Editorial Requirements

The framework establishes detailed requirements for the structure, language, and presentation of pharmacopoeial articles. Texts must be concise, precise, and unambiguous, avoiding outdated terminology, figurative language, or unnecessary foreign terms where equivalent expressions exist in the state language.

Articles are prohibited from containing legal norms, reinforcing their technical and scientific character rather than regulatory duplication. Uniform formatting, terminology definitions, and clear internal structure are mandated to support consistent interpretation and application in practice.

Evaluation, Approval, and Integration

Draft pharmacopoeial articles undergo a structured evaluation process involving scientific review and scoring based on predefined criteria. These criteria assess scientific validity, alignment with international standards, and compliance with established methodological requirements.

Based on the outcome of this evaluation, articles may be recommended for approval, returned for revision, or rejected. Approved articles are formally integrated into the State Pharmacopoeia and introduced into practice following a defined implementation period, allowing industry and laboratories to adapt to new requirements.

Updating and Lifecycle Management

The framework also regulates how changes and additions to existing pharmacopoeial articles are made, as well as the conditions under which outdated articles may be withdrawn. Amendments may be driven by scientific progress, technological innovation, regulatory changes, or substantiated proposals from stakeholders.

This lifecycle approach ensures that the State Pharmacopoeia remains a living instrument, capable of evolving alongside scientific and industrial developments.

Regulatory Significance

Taken as a whole, this framework strengthens the institutional credibility of pharmaceutical standard-setting in Uzbekistan. By combining scientific rigor, stakeholder engagement, international alignment, and procedural transparency, it enhances confidence in the quality control system governing medicines and medical products.

For pharmaceutical manufacturers, laboratories, regulators, and international partners, these developments signal a more predictable, harmonized, and professionally governed environment for pharmaceutical quality assurance in Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan has embarked on a comprehensive and systemic upgrade of its national framework for preventing and combating corruption, signaling a shift from fragmented enforcement toward an integrated, preventive, and institutionally embedded governance model.

The renewed approach is aimed at elevating state anti-corruption policy to a qualitatively new level, with a long-term horizon and clearly articulated strategic priorities. Rather than focusing predominantly on post-factum enforcement, the framework places prevention, risk management, transparency, and accountability at the core of public administration and state-affiliated entities.

From Reactive Enforcement to Preventive Governance

A central pillar of the updated framework is the creation of a professional and effective anti-corruption system across public authorities, state organizations, and business entities with significant state participation. The emphasis is placed on identifying corruption risks at an early stage and addressing systemic vulnerabilities before they materialize into violations.

This preventive orientation reflects a broader shift toward modern compliance-based governance, where corruption risks are managed through internal controls, institutional safeguards, and clear accountability mechanisms rather than through punitive responses alone.

Digitalization as a Structural Anti-Corruption Tool

Digital transformation plays a decisive role in the new approach. The framework prioritizes the use of digital technologies, including advanced data processing tools and elements of artificial intelligence, to minimize discretionary decision-making in high-risk areas.

The introduction of integrated digital compliance solutions is intended to:

• enhance real-time data exchange between relevant institutions,
• ensure traceability of administrative decisions,
• strengthen internal anti-corruption controls, and
• reduce human-factor vulnerabilities in processes exposed to corruption risks.

In parallel, transparency and openness in the activities of public bodies are reinforced as systemic safeguards, including stricter requirements for the publication and accessibility of regulatory and administrative decisions.

Institutional Strengthening and Coordinated Enforcement

The framework significantly expands the coordinating and methodological role of the national anti-corruption authority. Beyond oversight, the authority is tasked with shaping a unified enforcement and compliance practice, providing methodological guidance to public institutions, and coordinating anti-corruption expertise across the regulatory system.

Key institutional functions include:

• harmonizing approaches to corruption risk assessment,
• coordinating anti-corruption review of existing regulatory acts,
• developing minimum digitalization standards for high-risk public functions,
• monitoring compliance with transparency and openness requirements, and
• identifying and eliminating corruption-generating factors at a systemic level.

This model reflects a move toward centralized standards with decentralized implementation, ensuring consistency while embedding responsibility within institutions themselves.

National Anti-Corruption Management Certification

A distinctive feature of the framework is the introduction of a national certification system for anti-corruption management. This system institutionalizes compliance maturity as a measurable and enforceable standard, particularly within public bodies and state-affiliated organizations.

Certification is positioned not as a formal exercise, but as a mechanism linking governance quality, managerial accountability, and organizational integrity. Failure to implement the system within established parameters carries direct consequences for leadership, reinforcing the principle that anti-corruption compliance is a core managerial responsibility rather than a peripheral function.

A Unified Anti-Corruption Ecosystem

The framework envisages the creation of a unified anti-corruption ecosystem based on continuous interaction among:

• public authorities,
• law enforcement and control bodies,
• internal anti-corruption and compliance units,
• academic and expert institutions, and
• civil society organizations.

This multi-stakeholder model recognizes that sustainable anti-corruption policy requires coordinated action across institutional, professional, and societal levels, rather than isolated regulatory interventions.

Protection and Incentives: Supporting Integrity in Practice

Special attention is given to the protection of individuals who report corruption-related offenses. Safeguards against retaliation and workplace pressure are strengthened through formal protective mechanisms, reinforcing confidence in reporting channels.

At the same time, the framework introduces recognition mechanisms for individuals who make a meaningful contribution to corruption prevention. This dual approach protection combined with positive incentives reflects a mature understanding of integrity culture as something to be actively supported and encouraged.

A Compliance-Oriented Future

Taken as a whole, the updated anti-corruption framework represents a transition toward a compliance-driven, technology-enabled, and prevention-focused governance model in Uzbekistan. By embedding anti-corruption mechanisms into institutional design, management accountability, and digital infrastructure, the system moves beyond declarative commitments toward operational integrity.

For compliance professionals, regulators, and international observers, this development illustrates how anti-corruption policy can evolve into a structured governance system grounded in risk management, transparency, and institutional responsibility.

Uzbekistan has introduced a comprehensive set of professional ethics rules for mediators, marking a notable step in the development of its alternative dispute resolution (ADR) framework. For international practitioners and policymakers, this initiative offers insight into how emerging ADR systems are being institutionally structured and aligned with globally recognized mediation standards.

The ethics framework is designed to strengthen professional culture among mediators, enhance public trust in mediation as a dispute resolution mechanism, and prevent conduct that could undermine the credibility of the profession. Similar to approaches observed in many established ADR jurisdictions, the rules move beyond general principles and provide enforceable behavioral standards governing mediation practice.

From a comparative perspective, one of the key features of the Uzbek framework is the formal linkage between ethical compliance and professional recognition. Admission to the official register of mediators is contingent upon confirmation of familiarity with both the national legal framework on mediation and the applicable ethical rules. This mirrors regulatory models in several civil-law jurisdictions, where mediator accreditation is closely tied to ethical accountability.

The core principles underpinning mediation in Uzbekistan reflect widely accepted international norms. Confidentiality is treated as a foundational element of the process, extending not only to substantive communications but also to the very fact of participation in mediation, the identities of the parties, and the terms of any settlement. This approach is broadly consistent with international mediation standards and reinforces trust in mediation as a protected and reliable forum.

Voluntariness is another central principle. Parties retain full autonomy to enter, continue, or withdraw from mediation at any stage, and mediators are expressly prohibited from exerting pressure or influencing settlement outcomes. In comparative terms, this aligns Uzbekistan’s framework with best practices aimed at preserving party self-determination in ADR processes.

The ethics rules place particular emphasis on equality of the parties and procedural balance. Mediators are required to ensure equal opportunities for participation and are prohibited from showing bias based on personal characteristics, social background, values, beliefs, or conduct during mediation. This explicit articulation of non-discrimination standards strengthens procedural fairness and is comparable to safeguards found in mature mediation regimes.

Independence and impartiality are addressed in detailed and practical terms. Mediators must remain free from external influence, avoid conflicts of interest, and have no direct or indirect interest in the outcome of mediation. Where neutrality may be compromised, mediators are required to decline or discontinue the process. This reflects a convergence with international ethical codes that treat impartiality as a non-negotiable professional obligation.

In addition, the framework sets out clear expectations regarding professional conduct, transparency, and communication with parties. Mediators are required to provide accurate information about their qualifications, explain procedures and costs in advance, and maintain a respectful and safe negotiation environment. These obligations are consistent with international trends toward greater professionalism and accountability in ADR services.

Finally, the framework establishes that breaches of professional ethics may result in legal responsibility under applicable legislation. This enforcement element distinguishes the rules as a binding regulatory instrument rather than a purely aspirational code, further aligning Uzbekistan’s mediation regime with internationally accepted regulatory approaches.

Overall, the introduction of professional ethics rules for mediators illustrates Uzbekistan’s continued effort to build a credible, rules-based ADR system. For international observers, the framework demonstrates a clear orientation toward harmonization with global mediation principles while reflecting domestic legal and institutional structures.

Recent regulatory developments in Uzbekistan have significantly strengthened the legal framework governing occupational health and safety (OHS). The updated rules establish a comprehensive and systematic approach to workplace safety, covering organizational structures, training requirements, internal documentation, and employee representation in OHS matters. These measures are aimed at reducing occupational injuries, protecting employee health, and ensuring employer accountability under labor legislation.

Employer Obligations and the OHS Management System

At the core of the new framework is the employer’s obligation to implement an occupational health and safety management system within the organization. This system must be tailored to the nature of the organization’s activities, operational risks, and workforce size.

Employers are required to:

• Ensure compliance with sector-specific labor protection legislation;
• Identify and assess workplace hazards;
• Introduce preventive measures to minimize occupational risks;
• Create safe and healthy working conditions for all employees.

The OHS management system is expected to be integrated into the overall corporate governance structure and operate on a continuous basis rather than as a formal or one-time compliance exercise.

Organization of OHS Activities within the Enterprise

The approved regulations provide a clear framework for organizing occupational health and safety activities at the organizational level. Depending on the size and risk profile of the enterprise, OHS functions may be carried out by:

• A dedicated occupational safety service;
• A qualified specialist responsible for labor protection;
• An external expert or organization engaged on a contractual basis.

Regardless of the model chosen, responsibility for OHS compliance ultimately rests with the employer, who must ensure adequate resources, authority, and independence for those performing safety-related functions.

Training, Instruction, and Knowledge Assessment

A key component of the new approach is mandatory training and instruction in occupational health and safety. The regulations establish a multi-stage system of education and competence verification, including:

• Introductory safety briefings for newly hired employees;
• On-the-job instruction and supervised practical training;
• Knowledge testing related to workplace safety requirements;
• Specialized training for employees working at hazardous or high-risk facilities;
• Instruction in first aid and emergency response.

In addition, employees must undergo periodic retraining and professional development to ensure that their knowledge remains current and aligned with evolving safety standards.

Development of Occupational Safety Instructions

Organizations are required to develop and maintain written occupational safety instructions tailored to specific professions, job functions, and types of work. These instructions must:

• Reflect actual working conditions and identified risks;
• Be accessible to employees;
• Be reviewed and updated regularly, particularly when technological processes or equipment change.

Well-drafted instructions serve not only as a compliance tool but also as a practical guide for employees in their daily activities.

Occupational Health and Safety Representatives

The regulatory framework also formalizes the role of occupational health and safety representatives within organizations. These representatives act as intermediaries between employees and management on safety-related issues and contribute to:

• Monitoring compliance with safety rules;
• Identifying potential hazards;
• Participating in preventive measures and internal investigations.

Their presence reinforces employee involvement in workplace safety and supports a culture of shared responsibility.

State Policy and Oversight in Occupational Safety

The reforms reflect a broader state policy that prioritizes the life and health of workers. This policy includes:

• Development and implementation of national and sectoral OHS programs;
• Coordination among government authorities;
• Regular inspections and state supervision;
• Support for the introduction of safe technologies, modern equipment, and innovative safety solutions.

Special attention is given to the social protection of employees who suffer occupational injuries or contract work-related illnesses.

Expected Impact and Practical Significance

The adopted measures are designed to establish a systemic and preventive approach to occupational health and safety. By emphasizing training, risk management, and internal accountability, the framework aims to:

• Reduce workplace accidents and occupational diseases;
• Improve labor productivity;
• Enhance employer compliance with labor laws;
• Promote a sustainable and responsible working environment.

For employers, proactive implementation of these requirements not only mitigates legal and financial risks but also contributes to long-term organizational stability and employee trust.

Conclusion

The updated occupational health and safety framework in Uzbekistan represents a significant step toward modernizing labor protection practices. By clearly defining employer responsibilities, strengthening training and documentation requirements, and encouraging employee participation, the regulations lay the foundation for safer workplaces and more effective labor relations across all sectors of the economy

Recent legislative reforms in Uzbekistan introduce a range of measures aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship, ensuring fair competition, reducing the shadow economy, and stimulating employment and high value-added production. One of the key elements of this reform package is the simplification of procedures for the liquidation of inactive business entities, coupled with targeted tax incentives for priority economic sectors.

These amendments affect several core legislative acts, including the Civil Code and the Tax Code, and are intended to improve the efficiency of public administration while reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens on the business environment.

Policy Objectives and Regulatory Context

The reform reflects a broader state policy focused on:

• Improving the quality of the business climate;
• Ensuring equal and transparent market conditions;
• Encouraging formal economic activity;
• Redirecting state resources toward active and productive enterprises.

Inactive legal entities and individual entrepreneurs have long posed administrative and fiscal challenges, including distorted statistical data, ineffective tax supervision, and increased compliance costs. The new framework addresses these concerns by introducing clear, predictable, and expedited mechanisms for removing inactive entities from official registries.

Simplified Exclusion of Inactive Individual Entrepreneurs

Amendments to the Civil Code establish a streamlined procedure for excluding individual entrepreneurs from the state register where they have ceased meaningful economic activity.

Under the new rules:

• If an individual entrepreneur subject to turnover tax or value-added tax is transferred to an inactive status due to failure to conduct financial and economic activity;
• And if such entrepreneur does not resume activity within one year from the date of being classified as inactive;
• The registering authority is empowered to exclude the entrepreneur from the register based on an application submitted by the tax authority.

This mechanism eliminates the need for lengthy judicial or administrative liquidation procedures and ensures that business registries accurately reflect the active economic landscape.

Employment-Oriented Tax Incentives for Service Sectors

In parallel with the liquidation reforms, the Tax Code introduces reduced social tax rates to incentivize job creation, particularly among young workers.

Businesses operating in specified sectors including retail trade, public catering, hospitality, transportation, vehicle maintenance, IT services, household repairs, agriculture, veterinary services, and entertainment are eligible for a 1% social tax rate on wages paid to employees under the age of thirty, provided certain conditions are met.

These conditions include:

• An average monthly wage of no less than 2.5 times the statutory minimum wage;
• At least 60% of total income derived from the qualifying activities at the end of the reporting period.

The legislation also establishes strict compliance safeguards. Where concealment of employee numbers is identified, the preferential tax treatment is revoked, reinforcing transparency and accountability.

Support for Agricultural and High-Technology Initiatives

The reform package further extends fiscal support to agricultural modernization and high-technology development.

Initiators of new orchards benefit from VAT exemptions on the import of grafted fruit trees, planting materials, and certain technical equipment sourced from non-neighboring countries during the designated incentive period. This measure aims to reduce upfront investment costs and accelerate modernization in the agricultural sector.

Taken together with incentives for high-technology manufacturing and pharmaceutical production, these provisions demonstrate a shift toward sustainable, innovation-driven economic growth.

Practical Impact on Businesses and Regulators

From a practical perspective, the simplified liquidation mechanism:

• Reduces compliance costs for genuinely inactive entrepreneurs;
• Improves the quality of state business registers;
• Enables tax authorities to focus resources on active taxpayers;
• Lowers systemic risks associated with dormant entities.

At the same time, the employment and sector-specific incentives encourage businesses to remain active, expand operations, and formalize labor relations, thereby aligning regulatory efficiency with economic development goals.

Conclusion

The introduction of simplified liquidation procedures for inactive business entities marks a significant step in modernizing Uzbekistan’s business regulation framework. By combining deregulation for inactive participants with targeted incentives for active and compliant enterprises, the reform achieves a balanced approach that promotes transparency, efficiency, and sustainable growth.

These changes underscore a broader legislative trend toward pragmatic governance where regulatory mechanisms are tailored to economic realities while safeguarding fair competition and public fiscal interests.

Uzbekistan has taken another decisive step toward deepening its financial markets and strengthening investor confidence. A recently adopted presidential decree on additional measures to improve the investment climate in the capital market establishes a comprehensive framework aimed at accelerating capital-market development, expanding investment opportunities, and aligning domestic regulation with international best practices.

The decree represents a continuation of Uzbekistan’s broader economic reform agenda and its commitment to transforming the capital market into a key engine of long-term economic growth.

Strategic Targets for Capital Market Development Through 2030

The decree sets out clear, measurable benchmarks for the development of the capital market through 2030, reflecting both quantitative growth objectives and qualitative improvements in governance and transparency.

Key strategic targets include:

• Attracting at least USD 1 billion in investments to the stock market, including:
• Raising the share of detected and resolved violations in the capital-market sphere to 85 percent, strengthening regulatory enforcement and market discipline.
• Increasing mandatory disclosure levels of:

These objectives demonstrate a balanced policy approach that combines capital mobilization with robust compliance and transparency standards.

Permanent Regulatory Sandbox for Capital Market Innovation

A key feature of the reform package is the further development of the special legal regime known as the “Regulatory Sandbox” in the capital market. The decree institutionalizes this mechanism as a permanent regulatory tool.

Key Enhancements

Under the updated framework:

• The regulatory sandbox will operate on an unlimited basis, providing long-term legal certainty for market participants.
• Resident companies are granted the right to obtain sandbox participant status.

Sandbox participants are allowed to:

• Issue bonds denominated in foreign currency on the domestic stock market, including the repayment of principal and payment of interest in foreign currency, enabling access to foreign-currency financing without entering external markets.
• Conduct dual-listing operations, allowing securities to be placed simultaneously on domestic and foreign stock exchanges.
• Facilitate trading of securities of foreign issuers on local platforms, including shares and bonds linked to leading international indices and exchanges in the United States, the United Kingdom, China, and Japan.

These measures are intended to expand investment options for citizens, encourage participation in the stock market, and enhance investor protection through regulated domestic access to global financial instruments.

Additionally, sandbox participants are granted the right to issue unsecured bonds and bonds exceeding their own capital, subject to regulatory oversight, significantly expanding corporate financing opportunities.

Enhanced Investor Protection and Supervisory Framework

To ensure compliance with existing legislation and in line with IOSCO principles and international best practice, the decree introduces stronger supervisory mechanisms.

Issuer Compliance Rating System

• A rating system for issuers is introduced to assess compliance with legal requirements, transparency standards, and disclosure quality.
• The system is designed to improve market discipline and support informed investment decisions.

Updated Licensing Requirements

Licensing conditions for professional participants in the securities market have been updated to include:

• Gradual increases in minimum charter capital requirements;
• Enhanced information-technology and operational capacity standards;
• Strengthened qualification and fitness requirements for senior management and owners of professional market participants.

These reforms aim to increase professionalism, reduce systemic risk, and improve overall market resilience.

New Regulatory Instruments and Market Infrastructure

The decree also approves a comprehensive set of regulatory instruments governing capital-market activity, including:

• Licensing requirements for professional securities-market activities;
• Rules governing the licensing of stock exchanges and organizers of over-the-counter trading;
• Notification-based requirements for investment advisers;
• Procedures for foreign-currency settlements and payments within the regulatory sandbox;
• Core rules for organizing trading in financial instruments on stock-exchange platforms and electronic platforms of investment intermediaries;
• Approved fee schedules applicable to issuers in connection with state registration and documentation procedures.

Conclusion

The presidential decree on improving the investment climate in the capital market constitutes a systemic reform of Uzbekistan’s capital-market framework. By combining ambitious growth targets with regulatory flexibility, strengthened supervision, and enhanced investor protection, the reforms are designed to transform the capital market into a transparent, liquid, and internationally competitive segment of the national economy.

As these measures are implemented, Uzbekistan’s capital market is expected to attract increased domestic and foreign investment, deepen market participation, and support sustainable economic growth over the medium and long term.

Uzbekistan is taking significant steps to modernize and streamline its customs administration and foreign trade procedures. A presidential decree issued on December 17, 2025, introduces measures aimed at reducing bureaucracy, enhancing efficiency, and leveraging digital solutions across the customs system.

Key Objectives of the Reform

The reform is designed to accelerate trade operations, reduce administrative burdens, and improve compliance through a risk-based approach. Among the main goals are:

• Doubling the volume of goods processed for export and import directly at border points.
• Increasing the release of goods into free circulation by 1.5 times, supported by deferred customs payments.
• Expanding the number of authorized economic operators to over 200.
• Raising the coverage of customs audits to 30%.

Digitalization and Risk-Based Processing

From March 2026, businesses benefiting from pre-declaration of goods will see a 20% reduction in customs clearance fees. Deferred payments up to 14 days will not incur interest, and importers can pay duties per shipment under periodic declaration regimes.

Automatic declaration processing will be implemented for low-risk transactions, including for major taxpayers and exports not subject to restrictions. This is part of a broader digital transformation strategy to streamline customs operations.

Border and Inspection Reforms

Control procedures will be partially transferred to the Border Guard Service. By the end of 2026, vehicle inspections at selected checkpoints will be conducted exclusively by border troops on an experimental basis. Simultaneously, several major border customs posts will undergo reconstruction to improve efficiency.

From June 2026, businesses will have the option to defer or stagger customs duty payments for up to 120 days. An experimental mechanism will regulate the customs treatment of raw materials and inputs used in processing to prevent tariff distortions.

Modernized Customs Audits

The customs audit process will shift to a “consultant–auditor” model, allowing businesses to correct identified violations independently. Measures of liability will be differentiated and proportionate to the severity of non-compliance. Starting in 2028, financial penalties for customs violations will apply only to companies and individual entrepreneurs, excluding administrative liability for officials.

Simplifying Non-Tariff Regulations

The decree also aims to simplify non-tariff trade regulations. Permit issuance will be risk-based, while all prohibitions, restrictions, and fees must be pre-published in the “Single Window” system, ensuring transparency and predictability for businesses.

International Cooperation

Uzbekistan will enhance its international trade support by appointing customs advisors in several foreign embassies. These advisors will represent the interests of Uzbek exporters and importers abroad, helping to facilitate trade and protect national economic interests.

Conclusion

These reforms mark a major step toward modernizing Uzbekistan’s customs system, reducing red tape, and fostering an environment conducive to trade growth. By combining digital tools, risk-based management, and international cooperation, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a more competitive and business-friendly trade hub in the region.

In accordance with a resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers, additional measures have been introduced to further improve the system of management of industrial zones.

The resolution approves a Regulation establishing the procedure for equity participation by the directorates of industrial zones of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, regions, and the city of Tashkent with land lease rights in the construction of ready-made buildings and facilities (industrial mortgage mechanisms). These measures are aimed at ensuring the placement of projects intended to organize services for participants of industrial zones.

Scope of Application

The established procedure for formalizing joint ownership of land plots with lease rights by industrial zone directorates applies to projects with a total cost exceeding the equivalent of USD 100,000.

Key Regulatory Provisions

The approved Regulation defines clear procedures for:

• the organization and management of share (equity) capital;
• the selection of business entities responsible for constructing ready-made buildings and facilities;
• the assumption of obligations by the parties involved;
• as well as the rights and responsibilities of shareholders.

Land and Capital Participation Requirements

Under the Regulation, a land plot intended to be contributed to the authorized capital of a business entity must be registered in the state register as the property of the industrial zone directorate.

At the same time, the share of the directorate in the authorized capital of the business entity formed in the shape of the value of the land lease right may not exceed 49 percent, ensuring balanced participation and preventing controlling dominance by public entities.

Investment Agreement Framework

The conditions governing joint activities of participants within the authorized capital of the business entity must be clearly stipulated in an investment agreement. This agreement serves as the primary legal instrument regulating cooperation between the industrial zone directorate and private partners.

A recent presidential legal act introduces a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at significantly strengthening the Constitutional Court and modernizing its operations through institutional, procedural, and technological measures. The reform reflects a broader commitment to enhancing constitutional oversight, improving access to justice, and aligning judicial governance with long-term national development strategies.

Strengthening Access to Constitutional Justice

A central pillar of the reform is the expansion of access to constitutional justice for both individuals and legal entities. The new framework prioritizes the removal of excessive bureaucratic barriers and procedural delays that previously limited effective engagement with the Constitutional Court. Simplified procedures for submitting and reviewing constitutional complaints are intended to ensure that violations of constitutional rights can be addressed more promptly and effectively.

In addition, the reform introduces mechanisms that allow constitutional issues raised by citizens or organizations to be redirected to authorized entities when direct access is not legally available. Applicants are to be formally informed of outcomes and legal reasoning, reinforcing transparency and trust in constitutional adjudication.

Enhancing the Effectiveness of Constitutional Review

The reform strengthens constitutional oversight over the actions of executive authorities by expanding the Court’s functional capacity. Greater emphasis is placed on ensuring that laws and normative acts applied in specific cases comply fully with constitutional principles.

Courts of general jurisdiction are granted clearer procedural pathways to engage the Constitutional Court when constitutional doubts arise during litigation. This mechanism enhances judicial coordination and reinforces the supremacy of the Constitution within the legal system.

Institutional and Legislative Development

The legal act mandates the preparation of updated constitutional legislation governing court procedures, including the acceptance, review, and resolution of complaints, as well as the adoption of final decisions and conclusions. These measures aim to standardize constitutional proceedings and eliminate legal uncertainty.

At the organizational level, the reform provides for an increase in staff capacity to strengthen legal, analytical, and administrative support functions. Improvements in employment conditions, remuneration, and incentive mechanisms are also introduced to ensure institutional stability and professional independence.

Digital Transformation of Constitutional Justice

A major innovation introduced by the reform is the large-scale digitalization of Constitutional Court activities. A dedicated multi-year digitalization program is approved, focusing on the transition to electronic case management and service delivery.

Key digital initiatives include:

• electronic notification of court participants regarding hearings and procedural actions;
• remote participation in hearings through videoconferencing technologies;
• online tracking of constitutional complaints and their review stages;
• public access to court information systems to enhance transparency;
• live broadcasting of hearings and improved accessibility for persons with disabilities.

A unified digital information system is introduced on an experimental basis to integrate constitutional proceedings with other government information systems. This integration ensures that necessary data and documents are obtained electronically, free of charge, and without imposing additional burdens on citizens or businesses.

Interinstitutional Integration and Governance

To support the digital reform, a single national integrator is designated to develop, implement, and maintain information systems related to constitutional justice. This approach ensures technical coherence, cybersecurity, and long-term sustainability of digital solutions.

The reform also establishes clear financing mechanisms for digital development, combining state budget allocations with international grants and donor assistance. This diversified funding model supports innovation while maintaining fiscal discipline.

Infrastructure and Long-Term Sustainability

The legal act includes provisions for improving the physical infrastructure of the Constitutional Court, including reconstruction and modernization of facilities. Budgetary planning measures ensure that new staffing and operational costs are sustainably financed in future fiscal years.

Coordination and oversight of implementation are assigned at the highest executive level, underscoring the strategic importance of the reform and ensuring accountability across institutions.

Conclusion

This reform represents a significant step toward modern constitutional governance. By strengthening access to justice, improving institutional capacity, and embracing digital transformation, the Constitutional Court is positioned to play a more effective role in safeguarding constitutional order and fundamental rights.

The integrated approach combining procedural reform, technological innovation, and institutional strengthening demonstrates a forward-looking model of constitutional justice aligned with contemporary governance standards and the evolving needs of society

Uzbekistan has introduced a new, far-reaching framework governing state social insurance, marking one of the most significant overhauls of the country’s social protection system in decades. This reform establishes a unified, transparent, and financially sustainable structure designed to protect individuals against major social risks including illness, pregnancy and childbirth, temporary incapacity for work, and loss of income.

The new system will officially take effect on 1 January 2026, initiating a transition toward a modern, contribution-based approach aligned with international standards and best practices.

A Modern Vision for Social Insurance: Foundational Principles

The reformed model is guided by a set of principles intended to ensure fairness, long-term stability, and effective protection for all participants in the labor market.

Universality

Coverage is extended far beyond traditional employment groups. The system aims to include all economically active individuals, reflecting the realities of a diverse and evolving labor market.

Equality

All insured persons enjoy equal access to benefits and protections, regardless of the type of contract or sector in which they work, provided that the required contributions are made.

Financial Stability

The establishment of a dedicated State Social Insurance Fund ensures that contributions are managed responsibly, reserves are built, and benefit obligations can be met reliably.

Transparency and Accountability

The system mandates clear reporting procedures, digital records, supervisory oversight, and public accountability mechanisms to ensure that funds are used strictly for their intended purposes.

These principles collectively form the backbone of a stable and inclusive national social insurance system.

Who Will Be Covered: Significant Expansion of Mandatory Social Insurance

The reform introduces two categories of insurance participation:

• mandatory social insurance,
• voluntary social insurance.

Mandatory coverage now applies to:

• Workers employed under labor contracts

This includes all full-time and part-time employees as well as executives and managerial personnel of legal entities.

• Individuals performing work under civil-law agreements

This group includes service providers, consultants, freelancers, creators of intellectual property, and others engaged in contractual work outside traditional employment structures.

This is one of the most transformative aspects of the reform. By mandating insurance coverage for civil-law contractors, Uzbekistan significantly expands its social protection net to include workers who were previously not eligible for state-backed benefits. This change supports labor market formalization, enhances fairness, and mirrors the direction taken by many modern economies.

Insurance Events: Clear, Comprehensive Protection

The reformed system recognizes the following circumstances as insurance events that entitle individuals to receive benefits:

Temporary incapacity due to illness

Workers who are unable to perform their duties due to medical conditions will receive income replacement payments.

Pregnancy and childbirth

Maternity benefits are provided to protect income during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

Loss of employment or income

This ensures financial support during periods of involuntary unemployment or sudden income disruption.

Benefits may be paid directly to insured individuals or, when legally applicable, to their dependents. Detailed formulas, replacement rates, and supporting documentation requirements will be defined in separate regulations.

Contribution-Based Entitlement: Participation Is Essential

Under the new system, benefits are strictly linked to the payment of insurance contributions. Only individuals for whom contributions have been paid either by employers or, in some cases, by the individuals themselves are eligible for support.

Employer obligations include:

• timely calculation and payment of mandatory insurance contributions;
• registering employees and contractual workers in the insurance system;
• keeping accurate records of employment contracts, civil-law agreements, income, and payments;
• submitting required data to state authorities;
• cooperating with audits and inspections.

These requirements ensure that the insurance system is both fair and financially sustainable. Contribution histories stored in centralized digital systems will serve as the basis for determining benefit amounts and eligibility.

The State Social Insurance Fund: Core Institution of the New System

A dedicated State Social Insurance Fund will manage the financial, administrative, and operational aspects of the system. Its responsibilities include:

• Registration and record-keeping

Maintaining digital registries of insurers, insured individuals, contributions, and benefits.

• Collection and oversight of contributions

Monitoring compliance, identifying arrears, and ensuring all contributions are accurately calculated and transferred.

• Calculation and payment of benefits

Ensuring that benefits are processed efficiently, transparently, and in accordance with established formulas.

• Budgeting and financial management

The Fund operates on an independent budget, allowing it to build reserves and ensure the long-term sustainability of the system.

• Development of digital infrastructure

Modern information systems will track contributions, facilitate claims processing, and enhance transparency.

Funding sources include:

• a designated share of social tax;
• mandatory and voluntary insurance contributions;
• transfers from the state budget;
• investment income from temporarily available funds;
• other sources permitted by law.

This diversified funding model supports resilience and fiscal stability even in fluctuating economic conditions.

Benefit Payments: Structure, Calculation, and Payment Rules

The Law outlines several categories of benefits, with detailed procedures to be defined separately. Key benefit types include:

• payments for temporary loss of working capacity,
• maternity and childbirth benefits,
• unemployment or income-loss compensation,
• severance-type payments,
• other legally established forms of financial support.

General calculation principles include:

• verified insurance periods,
• contribution amounts and regularity,
• duration and nature of the insurance event,
• parameters defined by government regulations,
• supporting documentation from the insured or employer.

Suspension and reinstatement of benefits

Payments may be temporarily suspended if eligibility conditions change for example, if an individual resumes employment or recovers from illness. Benefits may be reinstated once eligibility is re-established.

Compliance Framework and Responsibilities

The system establishes clear responsibilities for all stakeholders:

• Employers must comply with contribution, reporting, and documentation rules.
• Insured individuals must provide accurate information and timely updates on their status.
• State authorities will carry out audits, verification procedures, and oversight activities.

Failure to comply may result in administrative measures, ensuring protection of both insured individuals and the financial integrity of the system.

Implementation Timeline: Effective on 1 January 2026

The reformed state social insurance system will officially become operational on 1 January 2026.

This transition period allows for coordinated preparation across all sectors:

For employers

• update payroll software and accounting practices,
• revise HR policies,
• adjust civil-law contracting processes,
• integrate with new digital reporting platforms.

For individuals

• ensure proper registration within the insurance system,
• understand rights and benefit conditions,
• maintain accurate contribution records.

For government institutions

• complete digital infrastructure development,
• harmonize administrative procedures,
• train specialists,
• conduct awareness campaigns for the public and business community.

A phased and structured implementation approach will help ensure a stable and effective launch of the new system.

Strategic and Socio-Economic Impact

The introduction of this new system carries broader implications for Uzbekistan’s development strategy:

1. Strengthening social resilience

By expanding insurance coverage, the reform provides stronger protection for workers and their families.

2. Promoting labor market formalization

Mandatory contributions for civil-law contracts will reduce informal work and increase transparency across industries.

3. Enhancing business planning and stability

Clear rules regarding contributions and benefit obligations enable employers to better forecast labor-related costs and risks.

4. Harmonizing national standards with global practices

The structure and governance principles reflect contemporary international models, aligning Uzbekistan with best practices adopted in socially advanced economies.

5. Supporting human capital development

Improved protections in cases of illness, maternity, and unemployment contribute to long-term workforce participation and social well-being.

Conclusion

The new state social insurance system, set to take effect on 1 January 2026, represents a transformative milestone in Uzbekistan’s social policy. Its universal coverage, contribution-based fairness, transparent financial management, and modern digital infrastructure position it as a cornerstone of long-term socio-economic development.

By reshaping both employer obligations and individual rights, the system will create a more stable, equitable, and resilient labor market strengthening the country’s human capital and enhancing social protection for generations to come.

Uzbekistan continues expanding the functions of the Unified National Labor System (ENST), the nationwide digital platform designed to record employment history and streamline interactions among employers, workers, and government institutions. A newly approved government regulation establishes the administrative procedure for providing commercial electronic services to employers through ENST.

This regulation clarifies which services are offered on a paid basis, how employers may access them, and what responsibilities lie with the system operator and applicants.

Voluntary Access and Preservation of Free Employer Rights

Under the regulation, employers may voluntarily choose to use ENST’s commercial digital services. Importantly, the introduction of these paid services does not limit an employer’s right to independently and free of charge enter employee labor data into ENST.

Thus, commercial services function as an optional convenience for organizations that prefer to outsource the technical and procedural work of maintaining employment record.

Types of Commercial Digital Services Available

The ENST Directorate, acting as the authorized body, offers employers the following commercial services:

Entering Employment Contract Data into ENST

This includes:

• registering the conclusion of employment contracts,
• registering contract termination,
• entering amendments and supplements to existing contracts.

These entries form part of the employee’s official digital employment history.

Creating an Electronic Employment Record Book

Based on the employee’s physical employment book, the authorized body digitizes past work history and transfers it into ENST. This service assists workers transitioning to a fully digital record-keeping system.

Forming an Organization’s Digital Structure

Employers may request the creation or renewal of their internal organizational structure within ENST, including departments, positions, and staffing units.

The regulation (supported by detailed process diagrams and passports in the appendices of the uploaded document) outlines each procedural step — from submitting an application to verifying identity documents, processing data, and issuing a final electronic certificate with a QR code.

Registration and Timeline for Service Delivery

To access commercial services:

1. The applicant registers on the unified digital government portal (EPIGU) and completes an online questionnaire.
2. The authorized body reviews the questionnaire within three business days.
3. Once validated, ENST generates the employee’s employment data.
4. The applicant receives an official electronic certificate with a QR code confirming the completed service.

The procedures and required documents are detailed in the administrative regulation.

How Verification Works

The regulation specifies identity verification mechanisms:

• Passport data is validated through the national integrated identification system.
• Information is authenticated through national communication networks.
• Additional checks involve various government registries and information systems, as shown in the tables and process descriptions of the annexes.

Applicants’ Responsibilities and Limits of the Services

The regulation also sets rules for:

• the accuracy of the data provided,
• the applicant’s responsibility for false or incomplete information,
• the possibility of re-submitting corrected documents if verification fails,
• the five-day retention period for incorrectly submitted applications before they are deleted automatically.

These provisions are outlined in the “General Provisions” and “Final Provisions” sections of the regulation.

What This Means for Employers

The launch of commercial services adds flexibility and professional support for employers who:

• lack staff dedicated to HR documentation,
• prefer outsourcing digital data entry,
• want to accelerate internal HR digitalization,
• aim to ensure compliance with national labor data requirements.

At the same time, employers retain full free access to ENST for independent data entry. The commercial model therefore complements rather than replaces the existing functionality.

Conclusion

The expansion of ENST’s service model marks an important step in the country’s wider digital transformation of labor relations. By introducing optional commercial services while preserving free core functionality, the system aims to:

• automate administrative tasks,
• improve accuracy of employment data,
• reduce employer workload,
• and enhance transparency of labor relations.

Uzbekistan has adopted a new law introducing important amendments to several legislative acts, aimed at further liberalizing foreign trade, modernizing corporate governance, and aligning national regulations with international standards. The law will take effect three months after its official publication.

Enhanced Corporate Governance Standards

The amendments to the Law on Joint Stock Companies and the Protection of Shareholder Rights are designed to clarify and strengthen the responsibilities of executives, supervisory board members, and majority shareholders. The updated norms reinforce the requirement that decision-makers act fairly, transparently, and in the best interests of the company and all shareholders.

The concept of fiduciary duty meaning the obligation to act in the most responsible and trustworthy manner toward the company and its stakeholders is formally incorporated into national legislation. This includes higher accountability for preventing conflicts of interest, mismanagement, or actions that could harm minority shareholders.

These changes aim to promote more responsible corporate behavior, ensure equal treatment of shareholders, and support the development of a modern corporate governance culture.

Elimination of Double Import Duty Rates

A significant part of the reform concerns changes to customs regulation. The law abolishes the previous practice of applying double import tariff rates to goods entering Uzbekistan from countries that do not grant a most-favoured-nation regime and where certificates of origin are not presented.

The updated rules create a more predictable and uniform customs system. They are expected to ease the import process, reduce costs for businesses, and bring national legislation closer to the norms used in international trade, including those of the World Trade Organization.

Promoting Fair Trade and Expanding Foreign Trade Activity

The legislative reforms support fairer trade conditions by removing outdated mechanisms that complicated import and export procedures. By harmonizing national rules with international standards, the law is expected to:

• encourage greater volumes of import and export operations,
• improve competitiveness for domestic companies,
• expand access to foreign markets,
• create a more open and investor-friendly business environment.

The changes reflect Uzbekistan’s broader economic strategy of integrating more deeply into global trade networks and improving the overall business climate.

Implementation and Institutional Responsibilities

Government bodies, including relevant ministries and agencies, have been instructed to ensure effective implementation of the new rules. This includes updating administrative procedures, informing businesses and the public about the new requirements, and coordinating efforts to maintain regulatory consistency across the system.

The newly adopted legislation marks an important step in Uzbekistan’s ongoing economic reforms. By strengthening corporate governance norms and removing restrictive customs practices, the country aims to foster greater transparency, fairness, and openness in both domestic business operations and international trade.

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.

Uzbekistan has introduced a new regulatory framework governing the state registration of medicinal products and medical devices. This reform modernizes the national system, aligns local requirements with international standards, and strengthens safety, transparency, and efficiency across the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors.

The new framework defines detailed procedures, evaluation mechanisms, documentation requirements, and timelines for the submission, assessment, approval, and renewal of products entering the Uzbek market. The reform applies to the entire industry, from global manufacturers and local producers to importers, distributors, authorized representatives, and expert organizations.

Below is an in-depth overview designed for industry professionals, regulatory specialists, and companies planning to register medicinal products and medical devices in Uzbekistan.

Scope of Regulation and Key Stakeholders

The new rules apply widely across the pharmaceutical and medical device ecosystem. They cover manufacturers, marketing authorization holders, authorized representatives, importers, distributors, and expert institutions responsible for conducting evaluations. The Center for Pharmaceutical Product Safety acts as the primary body handling registration reviews and final decisions.

This broad applicability ensures a unified regulatory approach and establishes higher compliance expectations for all market participants.

Two Registration Pathways: General Procedure and Recognition Procedure

The regulation introduces two distinct pathways for registration: the general procedure and the recognition procedure.

The general procedure is the standard route for most medicinal products and medical devices. It includes submission of a complete dossier in ICH CTD format, GMP verification, laboratory testing, and multi-stage expert evaluation covering quality, safety, and efficacy. Several specialized examinations are performed, including pharmaceutical, toxicological, clinical (if applicable), and analytical testing of samples. Cumulative review timelines can extend up to approximately 210 days.

The recognition procedure is an accelerated pathway for products already approved by trusted global regulatory authorities. Products authorized by WHO Listed Authorities (WLA) or regulators assessed at Maturity Level 4 (ML-4) under the WHO benchmarking system qualify for this route. By recognizing decisions of internationally stringent authorities, Uzbekistan can ensure faster access to innovative and high-priority therapies.

Priority Registration Categories

The regulation introduces a prioritization mechanism for certain therapeutic categories. Priority status may be granted to products that have no registered analogues in Uzbekistan, orphan drugs for rare diseases, medicines with high domestic demand confirmed by the Ministry of Health, and the first generic equivalents of original products.

This mechanism helps accelerate the availability of critical medicines and supports public health needs.

Documentation Requirements and Structure of the Registration Dossier

The new requirements emphasize alignment with international documentation standards. The dossier must be prepared in ICH CTD format and include administrative documents, manufacturing and quality data, stability studies, packaging information, non-clinical and clinical evidence, and samples for laboratory testing.

Required materials include manufacturing licenses, GMP certificates, product specifications, analytical methods, validation reports, toxicological profiles, clinical trial results or bioequivalence studies (for generics), and full labeling samples. Any missing or inconsistent information may suspend the review process.

Stages of Expert Evaluation

The evaluation system consists of several interconnected stages to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of medicinal products and medical devices. These stages include:

• preliminary examination of document completeness
• pharmaceutical assessment
• toxicological and pharmacological review
• evaluation of clinical or bioequivalence data
• laboratory testing of submitted samples
• final decision by the expert committee

This structured approach enhances scientific rigor and transparency across the evaluation process.

Grounds for Refusal of Registration

Registration may be denied for multiple reasons, including incomplete or inaccurate documents, unreliable or contradictory data, failure to demonstrate safety or efficacy, non-compliance with GMP or labeling standards, negative laboratory results, or an unfavorable risk–benefit profile. These provisions ensure that only safe and high-quality products enter the market.

Duration, Renewal, Suspension, and Revocation of Registration

Each registration certificate is valid for five years. Renewal requires submission of an updated dossier confirming continued compliance with quality and safety requirements.

Registration may be suspended or canceled due to safety concerns, manufacturing violations, quality defects, falsified documents, or failure to meet pharmacovigilance obligations. The regulation provides authorities with strong tools to oversee post-market compliance.

Regulation of Medical Devices

The regulation also introduces a comprehensive system for the registration of medical devices. Key aspects include risk-based classification, conformity assessment, technical documentation requirements, laboratory testing of materials and components, and verification of labeling and user information. This unified regulatory approach strengthens oversight across all types of medical technologies.

Practical Impact on Market Participants

The reform has major implications for the pharmaceutical and medical device industries:

• Alignment with international regulatory frameworks enhances predictability and reduces barriers for global manufacturers.
• The recognition pathway accelerates access to modern therapies and technologies.
• Priority registration mechanisms address unmet medical needs and shortages.
• New documentation standards require higher levels of regulatory preparedness.
• Strengthened quality and safety controls contribute to patient protection.
• Local manufacturers gain clearer pathways for product development, generics, and technology transfer.

Overall, the updated regulatory system creates a more transparent, scientifically grounded, and efficient environment for companies operating in Uzbekistan.

Conclusion

The new regulation governing the registration of medicinal products and medical devices marks a substantial step forward for Uzbekistan’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. It introduces modern registration pathways, clear documentation standards, extensive expert evaluations, a robust recognition mechanism, and stronger post-market oversight.

These reforms support patient safety, improve access to high-quality medicines, and provide a stable regulatory foundation for domestic and international companies. As Uzbekistan continues to modernize its healthcare system, this new framework represents a major milestone in aligning with global best practices.

Uzbekistan has introduced a new legal framework that allows farmers and agricultural enterprises to use their lease rights to farmland as collateral when obtaining bank loans.

The regulation establishes the procedure for pledging lease rights to agricultural land as loan security. It enables lessees to use their leasehold interests to access credit resources more easily, strengthening investment potential and improving productivity in the agricultural sector.

Under the new rules, lease rights to agricultural land may be pledged to banks or other financial institutions as collateral without the consent of the lessor, provided that such an arrangement is permitted by law or by the lease agreement. The regulation sets out the mechanisms for formalizing pledges, the satisfaction of creditor claims, and the sale of pledged lease rights through open auction in cases of default.

At the same time, the regulation clearly defines cases where the pledge of lease rights is not permitted. Lease rights cannot be used as collateral if the land:

is subleased;

is under a lease agreement that has expired, been terminated, or is under dispute (including court proceedings, investigation, or inquiry);

is subject to contractual restrictions prohibiting pledge;

has unregistered lease rights or unregistered amendments to such rights;

contains unauthorized or illegally occupied plots; or

falls under other restrictions established by law.

The pledge is provided to the lending institution based on the lease term and the market value of the land plot. Importantly, the term of the land lease must exceed the loan term by at least five years, ensuring stability and minimizing credit risks for lenders.

Commercial banks and microfinance institutions are expected to adapt their internal procedures to reflect this new mechanism, facilitating access to financing for agricultural producers.

The reform aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to enhance land productivity, attract investment into the agricultural sector, and create favorable conditions for sustainable rural development.

Uzbekistan is introducing a new mechanism aimed at attracting foreign individuals and their families by offering a preferential personal taxation framework. According to a recently adopted presidential act, beginning from early 2026, foreign citizens will be able to obtain a special tax status granting exemption from personal income tax on income derived from sources outside Uzbekistan.

Scope and Purpose

The special tax regime is designed to enhance the country’s investment and human capital potential by encouraging skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to establish a tax presence in Uzbekistan. The regime provides a simplified process for recognizing foreign individuals as tax residents while allowing them to retain global income earned abroad without being subject to domestic taxation.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the special tax status, a foreign citizen must meet two basic conditions:

Residence or tenancy – the individual must own or rent residential property within Uzbekistan; and

Physical presence – the individual must be physically present in the country for a cumulative period exceeding 30 calendar days within any continuous twelve-month period that begins or ends in the relevant tax year.

The regime is also extended to close family members of eligible foreign citizens, provided that a special fee is paid for each adult relative included under the regime.

Application Procedure

Applications for obtaining the special tax status will be submitted to a Commission on the Provision of the Special Tax Regime for Foreign Citizens through the Tax Committee. The necessary technical infrastructure is expected to be established by the end of the year preceding the introduction of the regime.

The Commission is required to review each application within five business days and issue a decision either approving or rejecting the request.

Financial Requirements

Upon receiving approval, the applicant must:

Pay a special fee of USD 50,000 for the primary applicant and USD 10,000 for each adult close relative included in the application; and

Open a financial account either in a specially authorized commercial bank in Uzbekistan or a crypto-wallet on a licensed cryptocurrency exchange operating in the country.

Funds transferred to these accounts or crypto-wallets will be subject to verification by the respective financial institutions to ensure the legality of their origin.

Registration and Validity

Foreign citizens and their family members who have paid the special fee are granted registration at their place of residence in Uzbekistan within one business day upon submission of the relevant request and proof of payment.

This registration will be valid for a period of up to five years, after which it may be renewed subject to applicable procedures and continued compliance with the established requirements.

Legal and Practical Implications

The introduction of this special tax regime marks a significant policy shift toward creating a favorable environment for foreign residents. By decoupling global income from domestic tax obligations, Uzbekistan positions itself as a competitive jurisdiction for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking regional residency options with simplified tax treatment.

At the same time, the requirement to maintain verified financial accounts within authorized institutions reinforces transparency and compliance with international standards on anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism financing.

The regime’s design combining minimal physical presence requirements with substantial financial commitments reflects a deliberate balance between accessibility and fiscal responsibility. It provides foreign citizens with an opportunity to obtain a secure and legitimate tax residency status in Uzbekistan while contributing to the national economy through investment and financial engagement.

The Cabinet of Ministers has adopted a resolution establishing a comprehensive framework for the regulation, classification, and modernization of transport and logistics centers (TLCs) throughout Uzbekistan. This new framework aims to improve the efficiency, safety, and competitiveness of the logistics sector by introducing unified standards of infrastructure, operational capacity, and management oversight.

Establishment of a National Register and Rating System

All TLCs operating in the country will now be included in a special national register maintained by the competent authorities. Each center will be assigned a rating reflecting its level of compliance, sustainability, and performance.

The overall rating will be based on two components:

The rating system will thus serve both as a compliance mechanism and as a benchmark for determining eligibility for state support, partnership programs, or preferential treatment in logistics initiatives.

Standardization of Infrastructure and Equipment

The resolution introduces mandatory technical and infrastructural requirements for the operation of both regional and international TLCs, as well as for warehouses, container terminals, and dry ports.

The territory of each TLC must comply with sanitary, environmental, and urban planning standards.

Requirements extend to transport accessibility, storage capacity, safety systems, and technological equipment.

TLCs are expected to provide facilities for cargo handling, packaging, temporary storage, customs procedures, and intermodal transport connections.

The standards are designed to align domestic logistics infrastructure with international norms, enhancing the country’s role as a regional transit and trade hub.

Restrictions on Location and Land Use

The regulation imposes clear geographical and land-use limitations:

TLCs must be located outside residential areas, protected environmental zones, and agricultural lands.

The allocated land plots must be used exclusively for logistics purposes, prohibiting unrelated commercial or industrial activities on the site.

This approach aims to reduce environmental risks, prevent congestion in urban areas, and preserve agricultural resources.

Accessibility Requirements

Each TLC must ensure direct and efficient connectivity to the main national and regional transportation corridors:

The distance between a TLC and the nearest railway line, transport interchange, or national/international highway may not exceed three kilometers by a road suitable for heavy transport movement.

This ensures smooth integration with the national logistics network, reducing costs and time in cargo movement.

Functional Mandate of TLCs

Depending on their location and strategic importance, TLCs must be capable of performing dual logistical roles:

Distribution center – facilitating the delivery and redistribution of goods across regions and neighboring countries.

Consolidation center – enabling the collection, sorting, and aggregation of goods for export, transit, or further distribution. This dual function enhances the system’s flexibility and responsiveness to both domestic and international trade flows.

Compliance and Future Implications

The introduction of uniform standards represents a major shift toward a regulated and performance-based logistics environment in Uzbekistan.

Operators will need to undertake technical audits and legal due diligence to ensure compliance with new standards before registration.

Non-compliance may result in exclusion from the register, loss of rating, or restrictions on participation in logistics programs.

The rating mechanism is expected to influence access to financing, investment incentives, and government contracts, effectively linking operational quality with regulatory and financial outcomes.

Strategic Outlook

The reform positions Uzbekistan to:

Strengthen its regional transit potential and integrate with global supply chains.

Attract private investment in logistics infrastructure through transparency and predictability.

Promote sustainable and environmentally responsible development by enforcing location and infrastructure controls.

The document shall enter into force on January 10, 2026.

Uzbekistan has introduced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at improving the management of water resources at the local level and increasing the attractiveness of the sector for private investment. These reforms mark a significant step toward modernizing the country’s water infrastructure, ensuring sustainability, and enhancing operational efficiency.

Key objectives of the reform include:

Strengthening the financial independence of 160 state institutions operating under the “Suv etkazib berish xizmati” (Water Supply Service);

Transferring 50% of pumping stations in Jizzakh, Kashkadarya, Navoi, Namangan, Samarkand, and Syrdarya regions to management under public-private partnership (PPP) arrangements by 2026;

Expanding the PPP model to cover 100% of pumping stations in the Namangan region by the end of 2027, building on its successful pilot experience;

Establishing training and field centers on at least 3,500 hectares of land in 141 districts as part of the “School of Water Specialists” project.

Pilot project in Dustlik district

Provide transparent observation of water consumption and supply for 437 farming enterprises, ensuring the delivery of water within established limits;

Install 1,804 smart water meters to enable digital monitoring and efficiency tracking;

Achieve annual savings of up to 107 million cubic meters – equivalent to 33% of total water use;

Concrete 159 kilometers of irrigation networks and restore 541 kilometers to fully operational condition.

Institutional and operational improvements

The reform also focuses on enhancing the performance of the Water Supply Services through:

Introduction of a flexible staffing system that reflects operational needs and available financial resources;

Establishment of key performance indicators (KPIs) for staff, linking incentives to efficient water resource use and service delivery outcomes;

Reinforcement of financial autonomy and improvement of the material and technical base of water supply institutions.

Under the new framework, the Water Supply Services will have the right to independently determine the number of staff positions and allocate up to 40% of revenues from the water use tax (credited to the state budget) toward infrastructure development.

Role of private partners

Private entities engaged under PPP arrangements will be required to:

Ensure continuous water delivery to users and households within approved water intake limits;

Manage all relevant water facilities in coordination with the public partner;

Maintain comprehensive records and reporting of water use, including through automated systems;

Implement phased modernization of water facilities in their service area.

Budget and regional oversight

The Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan and regional hokimiyats will annually review and adjust the budget allocations to Water Supply Services based on regional performance indicators. Within one month, a recalculation of local budget allocations for 2025 will be conducted to reflect the updated indexed amounts, and any outstanding funds will be disbursed accordingly.

These measures reflect Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to decentralize water resource management, encourage private sector participation, and ensure the sustainable use of one of the country’s most vital natural resources.

Pursuant to a Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers, the Regulation establishing the Expert Council on Tax Disputes under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan has been approved. The newly established Expert Council is designed to serve as a platform for impartial and professional review of tax-related disputes arising between business entities and tax authorities.

Key Objectives and Functions

The Regulation defines the structure, procedures, and responsibilities of the Council, which include:

Reviewing tax disputes between entrepreneurs and tax authorities, and issuing formal conclusions and recommendations;

Analyzing legislative and regulatory acts in the field of taxation and developing proposals to improve law enforcement practices;

Strengthening collaboration with the business community, government institutions, and academic organizations to ensure transparency and fairness in tax dispute resolution.

The Council is committed to ensuring impartiality, legality, fairness, and consistency in the interpretation and application of tax laws. Importantly, it emphasizes that all unresolved contradictions and ambiguities in tax legislation should be interpreted in favor of the entrepreneur, thereby supporting the principles of a fair and business-friendly tax environment.

Procedure for Appeals and Consideration

Entrepreneurs may submit appeals to the Council following the established procedure. Once a submission is received, the Secretary of the Council conducts a preliminary review and informs the applicant in writing about the feasibility of including the issue in the Council’s agenda.

The Council’s Secretariat prepares the agenda in coordination with its leadership, ensuring that each session addresses relevant and pressing issues faced by businesses. Following each meeting, the Council prepares certified extracts of its conclusions and distributes them to its members, the applicant, and other concerned parties.

The conclusions and recommendations issued by the Council are subsequently reviewed by the competent state authorities, which are obliged to inform the Council of the outcomes of their consideration.

Structure and Operations

The composition of the Expert Council will be approved by a Presidential Resolution. Its sessions will be held on a regular basis to ensure continuous engagement and timely resolution of tax disputes.

This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing dialogue between the state and the business community, improving transparency in tax administration, and strengthening trust in the system of tax dispute resolution in Uzbekistan.

The Government of Uzbekistan has adopted a new Presidential Decree introducing additional measures to support projects based on artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative marks another important step toward accelerating the country’s digital transformation and advancing the goals of the “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” Strategy.

Under the new framework, the government will allocate significant additional funding from the Fund for Reconstruction and Development to finance projects driven by AI technologies. The support will include both direct grants for the implementation of AI in public institutions and investments in venture funds such as “Fund of Funds” and “IT Park Ventures.” These mechanisms aim to stimulate innovation in socially important areas and across key sectors of the economy.

The Coordinating Commission for the Implementation of the Digital Uzbekistan Strategy will oversee the distribution of these resources. The Commission will determine priority sectors, select projects, and ensure that resources are used effectively to achieve the intended socio-economic impact.

Government institutions are encouraged to develop and submit proposals for integrating AI technologies into their operations. Projects will be financed either through direct agreements with registered enterprises or via open competitions held among innovative companies that meet the Commission’s requirements and selection criteria.

Additionally, the decree simplifies the technical review process for information systems and resources, ensuring that approvals are completed swiftly and efficiently across all relevant agencies.

This initiative underscores Uzbekistan’s growing commitment to fostering AI-driven innovation, promoting digital inclusion, and building a competitive, knowledge-based economy that harnesses the power of emerging technologies for public benefit.

The “Digital Prosecutor’s Office – 2030” strategy represents a nationwide initiative for the complete digital transformation of the prosecutorial system. Its overarching objective is to create a transparent, efficient, and modern institution capable of ensuring the rule of law through digital tools, data-driven oversight, and technological innovation.

The reform envisions the prosecutor’s office as an integral component of the country’s digital government infrastructure, a key institution in the ecosystem of e-governance, where all activities are carried out electronically, monitored in real time, and fully integrated with other state bodies.

Core Objectives

The strategy’s primary mission is to achieve full automation of all prosecutorial functions by 2030 and to ensure seamless electronic interaction across all levels of law enforcement, justice, and public administration.

Its objectives include:

Introducing advanced digital tools into every sphere of prosecutorial activity.

Establishing efficient systems for interdepartmental data exchange.

Enabling prosecutors to supervise legality, investigations, and judicial processes electronically.

Building a secure, transparent, and unified information environment that minimizes human error and corruption risks.

Enhancing public trust by ensuring accountability and open access to justice-related data.

Digital Transformation Priorities

Digital Oversight and AI-Driven Supervision

The concept of digital oversight introduces remote, continuous, and data-based supervision of law enforcement and administrative activities. Through integration with state databases, prosecutors will have real-time access to official data, enabling:

Automatic monitoring of government actions and procedural compliance.

Detection of irregularities and potential abuse of authority.

Prevention of corruption through algorithmic transparency and digital auditing.

Artificial intelligence will play a pivotal role in analyzing case data, recognizing patterns, and forecasting risks allowing the prosecutorial system to move from reactive investigation to proactive legal prevention.

Key Information Systems

A network of new digital platforms forms the technological foundation of the reform.

E-tergov (Electronic Prosecution System)

A central system that digitizes the entire criminal process from the registration of complaints to the enforcement of sentences. Its functionality covers:

Electronic case management and document circulation.

AI-based analysis of investigations and judicial outcomes.

Integration among investigative bodies, courts, and correctional institutions.

Secure digital archiving and communication channels.

This system ensures speed, accountability, and consistency throughout all stages of criminal justice.

Raqamli prokuror (Digital Prosecutor System)

A comprehensive digital ecosystem for prosecutors to manage supervision remotely. Features include:

Electronic oversight of law enforcement agencies.

Online participation of prosecutors in court hearings.

Maintenance of digital case files, requests, and administrative documentation.

Continuous collection and statistical analysis of data on prosecutorial activity.

This system forms the backbone of “smart supervision,” allowing real-time monitoring and decision-making.

Tekshiruvlarning yagona elektron reyestri (Unified Electronic Register of Inspections)

A centralized register of all state inspection activities. It ensures transparency of control measures, prevents overlapping checks, and allows prosecutors to track legality and compliance across agencies in real time.

E-Integratsiya (Unified Interagency Integration Platform)

A single digital platform that connects the prosecutor’s office to the entire governmental digital ecosystem. It supports:

Interoperability among ministries, agencies, and regional authorities.

Instant access to official data required for oversight and investigation.

Automated exchange of requests, reports, and monitoring outcomes.

Reduction of redundant paperwork and duplication of information across institutions.

Institutional Framework and Governance

To coordinate these digital initiatives, a Center for Digital Technologies is being established within the Prosecutor General’s Office.

This Center will:

Develop, maintain, and improve digital platforms used by the prosecutorial system.

Lead projects on the introduction of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity measures.

Provide technical expertise, manage databases, and oversee system integration across government entities.

Conduct audits of digital systems used by state institutions to ensure data security and lawful information management.

The Center operates as an independent administrative unit, financed through both the state budget and additional sources such as revenues from digital services. Funds will be reinvested into system upgrades, staff training, and the recruitment of IT specialists to sustain technological progress.

Human Capital and Education Reform

Recognizing that digital transformation requires new competencies, the strategy introduces comprehensive educational measures.

A Cyber Law bachelor’s program will be launched at the Law Enforcement Academy, training legal professionals who combine a strong understanding of law with expertise in information technologies, data protection, and cybersecurity.

Parallel initiatives include:

Systematic digital literacy programs for all prosecutorial staff.

Continuous professional development in AI applications, electronic documentation, and data analytics.

Cooperation with universities and research institutions to foster innovation in legal technology.

Innovation in Investigations and Case Management

The transition to a digital prosecution model involves:

Converting all stages of criminal proceedings into electronic form.

Implementing digital supervision at the stages of inquiry and preliminary investigation.

Enabling online documentation of procedural actions and the use of digital signatures.

Applying AI-based tools for the analysis of criminal patterns, economic crimes, and corruption risks.

Creating secure systems for data exchange and online coordination between prosecutors, investigators, and courts.

Such integration eliminates delays, improves procedural transparency, and enhances coordination among law enforcement bodies.

Transparency, Accountability, and Anti-Corruption Measures

An essential focus of the strategy is to combat corruption through technological means. The digital environment will enable continuous oversight of the activities of state officials, tracking their actions and decisions to ensure legality.

All public agencies will be required to integrate their information systems with the prosecutorial network, allowing:

Instant detection of irregularities.

Verification of official decisions.

Monitoring of compliance with laws and ethical standards.

This will institutionalize digital accountability and strengthen the culture of integrity in public administration.

Expected Outcomes

By the time the strategy is fully implemented:

Prosecutorial bodies will operate as modern, transparent, and digitally integrated institutions.

All processes from case registration to court participation will be managed electronically.

Artificial intelligence will enhance legal analysis, decision-making, and preventive oversight.

Interagency coordination will become seamless, supported by real-time data exchange.

Citizens’ rights and freedoms will be more effectively protected through transparent legal mechanisms.

Public trust in law enforcement will rise due to openness, responsiveness, and technological reliability.

The “Digital Prosecutor’s Office – 2030” strategy represents a decisive leap toward a fully digital justice system. It transforms the prosecutor’s office into a technologically advanced, data-driven institution that upholds legality through innovation rather than bureaucracy.

By combining automation, AI, interagency integration, and advanced human capital, the reform lays the foundation for a new era of digital legality, transparency, and institutional trust positioning the prosecutorial system as one of the key pillars of modern digital governance.

A presidential decree has been issued establishing new measures aimed at simplifying business operations, licensing, and permitting procedures. The primary objective of this decree is to reduce administrative expenses for entrepreneurs estimated at up to ninety billion soums and to shorten the time spent on interactions with state authorities by as much as fifteen days.

Beginning from early 2026, the following services will be provided simultaneously during the state registration of business entities, in accordance with the “Start a Business in 15 Minutes” principle:

issuance of an electronic digital signature key;

submission of applications for the opening and activation of bank accounts;

submission of applications for obtaining licenses, permits, or notifications for certain types of activities;

execution of rental agreements for immovable property;

automatic issuance of a Value Added Tax payer certificate (for taxpayers eligible for automatic issuance without a tax-risk assessment requirement);

online purchase of cash register equipment and its real-time registration with the tax authorities;

appointment of the head of a legal entity and registration of this information in the Unified National Labour System.

Under the “Start a Business in 15 Minutes” framework:

each service is used voluntarily at the discretion of the entrepreneur;

payment for all selected services may be made through a single unified QR code.

Additionally, from early 2026, individual entrepreneurs will be permitted to have a trade name.

When primary registration data of a business entity is changed (including name, surname, patronymic, trade name, address, legal form, etc.), all necessary adjustments to the individual entrepreneur certificate, licenses, permits, and notifications will be made free of charge through interagency electronic data exchange, in an automatic manner.

For this purpose:

information concerning changes in the name, surname, or patronymic of an individual entrepreneur will be provided through the automated identification system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs;

all other information will be transmitted from the automated state registration and accounting system for business entities to the licensing information system in real time.

Simplification of Licensing and Permitting Procedures

Starting from spring 2026, when penalties are applied to legal entities for violations in the area of licensing, permitting, or notification procedures, the practice of simultaneously imposing administrative liability on their officials will be abolished.

In addition, a voluntary preliminary assessment service will be introduced within the licensing information system. Under this service:

the compliance of facilities, equipment, personnel, and other relevant information with licensing or permitting requirements will be reviewed, and a corresponding conclusion will be issued;

the preliminary assessment will be carried out within a period not exceeding twenty days, and the fee for this service will not exceed the amount charged for reviewing an application for the respective license or permit.

A comprehensive roadmap has also been approved, aimed at reducing regulatory burdens on entrepreneurial activity and eliminating bureaucratic barriers.

In accordance with the relevant Presidential Decree, the Government of Uzbekistan has announced the establishment of the U.S.-Uzbek Business and Investment Council (the “Council”). The decision follows agreements reached during the President of Uzbekistan’s visit to the United States within the framework of the “C5+1” Summit. The Council will be co-chaired by the Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan from the Uzbek side and a representative of the President of the United States from the American side.

Mandate and Authority

The Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan has been granted the authority to approve the composition of the Council, as well as its regulations and procedures on behalf of Uzbekistan.

The Council will focus on a number of strategic priorities, including:

Coordination of strategic business initiatives, major investment and trade projects, and continuous monitoring of their implementation.

Creation of a special investment fund aimed at mobilizing additional investments into Uzbekistan, with anchor participation from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and the Uzbek side, as well as the involvement of major international financial institutions such as the EBRD, IFC, and ADB to finance critical infrastructure and strategic projects and share risks.

Continuation of negotiations on mutual tariff reductions.

Systemic promotion of products and services of resident companies of the IT Park of Software Products and Information Technologies.

Development of proposals for diversifying the national investment portfolio, including portions of the foreign exchange reserves of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan and other assets.

Strengthening Diplomatic Capacity in the United States

To enhance the effectiveness of foreign policy coordination and state initiatives, an additional position of Counselor-Envoy, serving as a representative of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan in the United States, will be introduced within the structure of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Washington, D.C. beginning from the start of 2026.

The Counselor-Envoy:

Is appointed and dismissed by the Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan.

Reports directly to the Head of the Administration.

Is responsible for supporting the Head of Uzbekistan’s diplomatic mission in the United States, particularly in matters of advancing bilateral relations.

Will directly initiate and discuss issues related to the implementation of major strategic investment and trade projects in both countries.

Will ensure comprehensive coordination of the Council’s work from the Uzbek side.

In addition, measures are planned to further strengthen the diplomatic presence of Uzbekistan in the United States:

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade, will propose an expansion of the Embassy’s staff.

Work will be undertaken to open additional consulates in U.S. cities with major economic hubs or large Uzbek diasporas, including Philadelphia, Chicago, Orlando, and Seattle.

One of the primary tasks of the newly established consulates will be the development and implementation of an effective interaction model with Uzbek diaspora communities across all U.S. states.

Facilitating Investment Activities of Uzbek Residents in the United States

Beginning in 2026, operations of Uzbek residents related to investment activities in the United States such as the transfer of funds from accounts in Uzbekistan for the formation of charter capital of foreign enterprises, equity participation, or funding the working capital of their U.S. branches will be carried out without restrictions, within the limits of their account balances.

The Central Bank of Uzbekistan will introduce the necessary legislative amendments arising from this requirement.

Additionally, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, together with the Central Bank, will submit proposals to the Council on improving the structure of the country’s investment assets and foreign exchange reserves, aiming to allocate resources to high-yield and highly liquid assets, including those located in the United States.

Organizational Development of the Council

To ensure long-term, efficient functioning of the newly established Council:

The Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will work with the U.S. side on the formation of a permanent staff for the Council’s executive body, with a permanent office located in the United States, including U.S. specialists.

A draft of the Council’s regulations and operational procedures from the Uzbek side will be submitted for approval.

The composition of the Council from the Uzbek side expected to include prominent figures from the U.S. business and investment community will be finalized.

Negotiations will begin with the U.S. side on a bilateral Agreement on the Promotion and Protection of Investments.

Legislative Adjustments

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with relevant ministries and agencies, will submit proposals for necessary amendments and additions to national legislation arising from the provisions of the Presidential Decree.

A new regulatory framework has been adopted in Uzbekistan establishing comprehensive rules for accessing and using the infrastructure of the public railway network. The regulation introduces a unified, transparent, and nondiscriminatory model that governs how carriers both state-owned and private interact with the country’s rail infrastructure, including tracks, stations, hubs, electrical systems, dispatching centers, signaling, communication networks, and safety systems.

The aim of the reform is to modernize the management of the railway sector, encourage private transport operators, and create reliable mechanisms for infrastructure financing, maintenance, and modernization.

Objectives and Conceptual Foundations

The newly introduced rules are designed to ensure that all carriers, regardless of ownership form, receive equal access to railway infrastructure. They aim to:

• increase the efficiency of infrastructure utilization;
• stimulate the involvement of private sector operators;
• establish a level competitive environment;
• strengthen the long-term financial sustainability of infrastructure maintenance and upgrades.

The framework defines the principles of transparency, fairness, and technological neutrality. Each carrier must receive the same opportunities for access, scheduling, capacity allocation, and service provision, while the infrastructure operator is obligated to act solely on the basis of unified standards and technical requirements.

General Structure of the Rules

The regulation outlines a complete system governing:

• definitions and key concepts used in railway operations;
• rights and responsibilities of the infrastructure operator;
• obligations and rights of carriers (transport service users);
• technical, operational, and safety requirements;
• procedures for submitting and approving applications for access;
• rules for allocating railway capacity and forming train schedules;
• mechanisms for managing disruptions, delays, repairs, and unexpected operational constraints;
• rules for providing coordinated services, including locomotive assistance, dispatching, inspection, and other technical functions;
• requirements for financial transparency and cost-based pricing;
• obligations for reporting, record-keeping, and information transparency;
• standardized forms and documentation, including the unified infrastructure access application form.

Definitions and Key Terms

The rules establish a unified terminology to ensure consistency across the industry. Among the terms included are:

• Infrastructure services – all services related to access to railway infrastructure, including traffic management, dispatching, signaling, power supply, technical inspection, placement, and routing of trains.
• Infrastructure objects – tracks, stations, depots, hubs, energy supply systems, communication networks, and other components forming the unified technological complex.
• Train characteristics – weight, length, composition, traction requirements, axle loads, braking systems, and other technical metrics required for scheduling and safe movement.
• Capacity allocation – the process of distributing available train paths among users in accordance with objective criteria, operational intensity, and infrastructure capabilities.
• Application (order request) – the standardized form submitted by carriers for obtaining the right to use specific infrastructure services within defined timeframes.

These terms serve as the foundation for the technical and operational regulations that follow.

Responsibilities of the Infrastructure Operator

The regulation imposes extensive responsibilities on the infrastructure operator, covering technical, operational, informational, and administrative obligations. Among them:

I. Technical readiness

The operator must ensure that all infrastructure objects remain in safe, operational condition. This includes:

• timely repairs and inspections;
• coordination of maintenance schedules;
• ensuring the reliability of signaling, power supply, and safety systems;
• preventing disruptions affecting train movements.

II. Provision of accurate and timely information

The operator must supply carriers with full and updated information on:

• available capacity;
• technical characteristics of routes and stations;
• schedule constraints and operational limitations;
• temporary restrictions caused by repairs or emergencies;
• conditions for the movement of different types of trains.

III. Non-discriminatory service provision

All carriers must receive infrastructure services:

• under equal conditions;
• with uniform technical and procedural requirements;
• without giving unnecessary preference to any company or transport type.

IV. Operational assistance

The operator must provide, when required:

• dispatching and traffic management;
• locomotive coupling or shifting assistance;
• technical inspection of trains;
• emergency response services.

V. Safety and compliance

The operator controls adherence to safety norms and may suspend or deny access if a carrier violates technical or safety requirements.

Rights and Obligations of Carriers

Carriers using the railway infrastructure must:

• comply strictly with safety standards;
• ensure train readiness, including braking systems, weight limitations, technical documentation, and crew qualifications;
• follow dispatching instructions and route assignments;
• provide accurate information on cargo types, train parameters, and schedules;
• inform the operator of any circumstances affecting safe train movements.

They also have the right to:

• receive infrastructure services under equal conditions;
• access all necessary information for planning their operations;
• challenge decisions they consider discriminatory or inconsistent with established rules.

Access Procedures and Application Requirements

A central element of the new framework is the modernized procedure for submitting and approving applications for infrastructure use.

Standardized requirements

Applications must include:

• carrier details;
• requested routes and times;
• technical characteristics of trains;
• safety-related information;
• supporting documentation proving compliance.

Clear review timelines

The operator must review applications within established timeframes, eliminating subjective delays and administrative uncertainty.

Contracting

Once an application is approved, a contract is signed defining:

• the scope of services;
• the terms of access;
• liabilities and responsibilities;
• pricing principles.

The regulation introduces a unified application form, simplifying the process and ensuring consistency across carriers.

Capacity Allocation and Scheduling

The rules set forth detailed mechanisms for forming and approving the train movement schedule.

The operator must:

• evaluate the technical feasibility of carrier requests;
• consider infrastructure capacity, repair schedules, and operational loads;
• balance competing applications based on transparent criteria;
• coordinate schedules across stations, hubs, and neighboring regions;
• ensure that safety margins and technical limits are never exceeded.

Carriers may request changes during operations, but such adjustments must not compromise the overall stability of the movement schedule.

Handling Disruptions and Emergency Situations

The regulation establishes procedures for:

• infrastructure failures;
• unexpected technical problems;
• delays caused by weather, accidents, or overloaded routes;
• cases where carriers violate safety or operational norms.

The operator may:

• reroute trains;
• adjust schedules;
• temporarily limit access;
• require additional inspections or documentation.

Carriers are obligated to cooperate fully and promptly.

Economic Principles and Payment Mechanisms

The document introduces a modern model of financial relations between carriers and the infrastructure operator, including:

Transparent pricing mechanism

Payment for infrastructure services is based on:

• the type and intensity of infrastructure use;
• the characteristics of train movement;
• actual operational costs;
• maintenance and modernization needs.

Use of revenue

Income generated from access fees must be directed toward:

• maintaining infrastructure;
• upgrading outdated equipment;
• improving safety systems;
• ensuring the long-term stability of the railway network.

Financial transparency

The operator is required to maintain transparent accounting and make financial information available upon request.

Supervision and Accountability

Compliance with the rules is monitored by relevant supervisory bodies. The infrastructure operator must regularly report on:

• the status of infrastructure;
• service provision statistics;
• financial operations;
• incidents, delays, and emergency responses.

Carriers may file complaints if they believe access conditions were applied unfairly or inconsistently.

Final Provisions

The regulation concludes by confirming that:

• its implementation will be continuously monitored;
• all related regulatory and technical acts must be brought into full alignment;
• any outdated norms are subject to revision or cancellation.

Conclusion

The new regulatory framework represents a major shift toward a more open, transparent, and competitive railway market. By introducing equal access conditions, strengthening the role of private operators, and defining comprehensive rules for the use of infrastructure, Uzbekistan takes an important step toward modernizing its transport sector and aligning it with international best practices.

The reform is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce delays, eliminate administrative barriers, and support sustainable development of the railway system.

In October 2025, Uzbekistan introduced a series of significant legal reforms aimed at strengthening the mediation institute as a central mechanism for pre-trial dispute resolution. These reforms, codified in recent amendments to multiple legislative acts, are designed to improve the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of dispute resolution, while also accommodating disputes involving foreign investors and encouraging amicable settlements at any stage of litigation.

Objectives and Scope of Mediation Reform

The 2025 reforms reflect a strategic effort by the Uzbek government to institutionalize mediation as an effective tool for alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Key objectives include:

Expanding the scope of mediation to cover disputes between individuals, business entities, and foreign investors, ensuring that conflicts are addressed before entering lengthy litigation processes.

Promoting amicable settlements at any stage of judicial proceedings, enabling parties to reach mutually acceptable resolutions even during ongoing litigation.

Reducing judicial workload by diverting suitable disputes to mediation, thereby allowing courts to focus on complex cases requiring formal adjudication.

Enhancing legal certainty and investor confidence by formalizing mediation as a recognized and enforceable mechanism within the Uzbek legal framework.

The legislation emphasizes that mediation is not limited to domestic disputes but can be effectively applied to commercial conflicts involving international parties, a move expected to strengthen Uzbekistan’s appeal as an investment-friendly jurisdiction.

Mediators’ Professional Standards and Ethics

The law introduces stringent requirements for mediators to ensure professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct. These include:

Mandatory higher education for all professional mediators.

Periodic professional development, requiring mediators to undergo training and recertification at least once every three years.

Compliance with professional ethics, with explicit sanctions for violations, including disciplinary measures or suspension of mediation authority.

These standards aim to safeguard the quality of mediation, instill confidence among disputing parties, and ensure that mediators operate with impartiality, competence, and accountability.

Mediation Procedures and Voluntary Compliance

Mediation under the new framework operates as a voluntary and flexible process, emphasizing consensual dispute resolution:

Parties are encouraged to engage professional mediators at the earliest stage of dispute to prevent escalation.

Mediated agreements are formalized in writing and may be notarized, providing legal recognition and evidentiary weight.

Parties retain autonomy in negotiating settlement terms, promoting solutions that are mutually beneficial and contextually appropriate.

The reforms clarify that mediation can be applied at any stage, including before litigation, during proceedings, or even after initial court rulings, reinforcing its role as a versatile ADR mechanism.

Enforcement of Mediated Agreements

A cornerstone of the 2025 reforms is the recognition and enforceability of mediated agreements:

If parties fail to voluntarily comply with a mediated agreement, the law permits application to the court for an enforcement order (execution sheet).

Enforcement may be refused in the following circumstances:

This mechanism ensures that mediation outcomes carry real legal weight, balancing voluntary settlement with enforceability while maintaining judicial oversight.

Legislative Amendments

The reforms have introduced amendments to multiple key legislative acts to integrate mediation effectively:

Notary Law establishes procedures for notarizing mediated agreements, providing formal legal recognition.

Civil Procedure Code outlines procedures for applying for enforcement orders for mediated agreements.

Family Code integrates mediation in family law disputes, including divorce, child custody, and property division.

Law on Execution of Judicial and Other Acts codifies the process for executing mediated agreements.

These amendments collectively institutionalize mediation across civil, commercial, and family disputes, providing a comprehensive legal infrastructure for ADR in Uzbekistan.

Special Considerations for Foreign Investors

A key focus of the reforms is facilitating dispute resolution involving international parties:

The legal framework ensures that investor-related disputes can be resolved efficiently before resorting to litigation, promoting business continuity and reducing the risk of protracted legal battles.

Mediation agreements with foreign investors are enforceable under Uzbek law, offering predictable legal remedies in cross-border contexts.

This approach strengthens Uzbekistan’s investment climate, signaling commitment to transparent, professional, and enforceable dispute resolution mechanisms.

Practical Implications for Businesses and Individuals

The reforms provide clear guidance for practical implementation:

Engage professional mediators early to resolve disputes efficiently.

Formalize agreements in writing, and notarize if required to enhance enforceability.

If voluntary compliance fails, seek enforcement through the court system using the execution sheet mechanism.

Monitor mediator conduct, as violations of professional ethics or law can be challenged through legal procedures.

Businesses can leverage mediation to reduce litigation costs, accelerate dispute resolution, and maintain commercial relationships, while individuals can benefit from quicker, less adversarial resolutions.

Conclusion

These reforms mark a significant step forward in the development of Uzbekistan’s mediation and ADR framework. By broadening the scope of mediation, introducing stringent professional and ethical standards for mediators, and ensuring enforceability of mediated agreements, the legislation provides a modern, reliable, and investor-friendly alternative to traditional litigation.

These changes not only enhance the efficiency of dispute resolution and reduce the burden on courts but also foster a legal environment conducive to amicable settlements and sustained commercial relationships. Importantly, by integrating mediation across civil, commercial, and family law, Uzbekistan aligns its legal framework with international ADR standards, signaling transparency, predictability, and professionalism to both domestic and foreign stakeholders.

In practice, these reforms empower parties to resolve disputes effectively while maintaining control over outcomes, reinforcing mediation as a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s evolving legal and business landscape.

According to the Decree of the President of Republic of Uzbekistan “on measures to improve the regulation of organizing and conducting lotteries and games based on risk” dated on April 19, 2024, in order to implement advanced foreign experience and modern technologies starting from January 2025, it is permitted to carry out activities on organizing games based on risk, lotteries and online games on the Internet, as well as, bookmaker activity.

Licensing of such as activity is going to be carried out by The National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Government bodies and organizations, as well as charitable foundations and private organizations are going to be allowed to conduct lotteries exclusively through lottery organizers on a contractual basis.

Only residents and non-residents of the Republic of Uzbekistan who have reached the age of 18 are allowed to participate in lotteries, online games and bookmaker bets.

The National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan and General Prosecutors Office of the Republic of Uzbekistan will perform full monitoring and controlling of the compliance of organizers of lotteries, online games and bookmaking activities with legislative acts on combating the legalization of proceeds from criminal activity, the financing of terrorism and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

Starting from January 01, 2025 and for the period of 5 (five) years:

legal entities engaged in the organization of lotteries, online games or bookmaker activities are going to pay a turnover tax at a rate of 4 (four) percent, levied on the total income from such activity minus all paid winnings and returned bets.

income of individuals received from winnings in lotteries, online games, bookmaker bets, conducted on the basis of licenses issued by the above mentioned Agency, is exempt from paying personal income tax.

Upon from the Presidential Decree, The National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan along with other Ministries are supposed to submit to the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan a draft of a government decision regulating:

– procedures for organizing lotteries; online games and bookmaker activities, including licensing requirements;

– procedures for creating Unified Government Register of Bets and Players, as well as its maintenance by the licensing authority;

– amendments and additions to the Tax Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Laws “On State Duty”, “On licensing, permitting and notification procedures”, “On advertisement” and others.

Most Important General Provisions. Chapter I. General Legal Entities.

According to a Law №. LRU-959 dated 09.10.2024 “On amendments and additions to certain legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in connection with further improvement of the system of legal protection of intellectual property”, a copyright holder may request a violator to pay a compensation instead of indemnification (damages), for the illegal use of intellectual property objects.

Compensation amount could vary from 7.500.000 to 375.000.000 UZS (approx. from 585 to 29.000 USD), depending on different circumstances.

In this case, compensation is paid regardless of the fact of causing any damages (losses).

According to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the Approval of the Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence Technologies until 2030”, during next 6 years following goal have to be achieved:

* software products and services based on artificial intelligence have to be brought up to a 1.5 billion USD;

* services provided by the unified portal of interactive public services based on artificial intelligence have to reach 10 percent;

* bringing the number of scientific labs operating in the field of artificial intelligence to 10 units;

* launch of high-performance computing servers;

* bringing the country into the top 50 states in the Government AI Readiness Index for artificial intelligence.

Priority goals and objectives for the development of artificial intelligence technologies include:

* formation of a regulatory legal framework;

* improvement of standards and strengthening international cooperation;

* creation of technical infrastructure for data processing and launching projects;

* implementation of priority projects in social sphere and economic sectors;

* improving the knowledge and skills of the population, as well as developing human resources.

Prioritized areas for introduction and implementation of artificial intelligence technologies are:

* in banking and financial sector: fraud prevention, assessment of users’ solvency, forecasting market trends;

* in tax and customs sector: reducing the share of the shadow economy, forecasting suspicious customs operations and risk management;

* in healthcare sector: determination of diagnosis methods, disease treatment, medical images analysis and patient’s data management;

* in agriculture sector: yields forecast, agriculture resource management, monitoring of growing sowings, poultry, fish and livestock processes;

* in energy sector: energy management, optimization of energy production and distribution, development of use of renewable energy sources.

For the achievement of above mentioned goals, starting from January 01, 2025, the Fund for Reconstruction and Development of Uzbekistan will provide The Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan with an interest-free 5 years’ loan in the amount of 50 million USD for the development of an artificial intelligence technologies.

According to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan № PR-3832, “On measures to develop the digital economy and the sphere of turnover of crypto assets in the Republic of Uzbekistan”, mining considered to be one of the activities in a field of crypto assets.

Mining is an activity of maintaining a distributed data registry, creating and confirming the integrity of blocks by performing computational operations.

Mining could be carried out exclusively by a legal entity using electricity generated by a solar photovoltaic power plant.

In case of using electricity with connection to a unified electric power system, payment for consumed electricity is carried out using an increasing coefficient to the established tariff.

During the peak period, surcharges to the corresponding tariffs for electricity consumption established by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan are applied.

Electricity consumption is recorded with the installation of a separate metering device.

Mining is subject to mandatory registration by the National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan and does not require any licensing.

Legal entities engaged in mining (miners) are required to register in accordance with the procedure established by the legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Registration of miners is carried out exclusively in electronic form via the Internet.

Miners have the right to carry out their activities exclusively at the address specified during registration, in compliance with fire safety and sanitary norms, rules and guidelines.

Starting from January 1, 2023, physical persons and legal entities of the Republic of Uzbekistan are allowed to can carry out a purchase, sale and (or) exchange of crypto assets exclusively through national service providers in accordance with the procedure established by legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Licensing procedures, issuance, registration of issuance and circulation of crypto assets by residents of the Republic of Uzbekistan, amount and procedure of payment of government fees are determined by the National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Miners using solar photovoltaic power plants have the right to tax, customs and other preferences as well as benefits in field of renewable energy sources in accordance with the procedure established by legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

It is prohibited to carry out hidden mining as well as anonymous mining of crypto assets.

All the other procedures covering licensing activity of service providers in the field of turnover of crypto assets are governed by the Regulation “on the procedure for licensing the activities of service providers in the field of turnover of crypto assets” as a part (Annex) of the Order of the Director of the National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan № 3380.

Short legal summary on regulation of outstaffing (outsourcing) services in Uzbekistan covering aspects of governance of such an activity under Uzbek Law, including outstaffing service provisions, types of unauthorized outstaffing services, terms of oustaffing contracts and agreements, regulation of labor (employments) relations between outstaffing company, accepting (hosting) company and the employees.

For more detailed information, please read attached legal report.

Revised Law on Subsoil in Uzbekistan will take effect in February 2025. President of the Republic of Uzbekistan has signed a new edition of the Law on Subsoil aimed to renew and update legislative provisions related to the possession, use, protection of mineral resources as well as disposal of mineral wealth.

Under this edition, the subsoil, including all found minerals naturally occurred in the subsoil, will remain state’s property, despite of someone’s land and water rights and are subject to rational usage protected by the government.

Uzbek legislation prohibits inheritance, sale, gifting, donation, pledge and usage of the subsoil resources as a collateral, with only one exception, an ability to transfers the rights of usage of subsoil resources in accordance with permissive procedures governed by the law.

Simplification and transparency of potential investor’s rights and obligations, as well as rationalization of licensing and permit obtaining process, including provisions governing geological data possession, ownership and sharing and those aspects governing subsoil usage rights could be one of the key factors attracting more foreign investors.

According to the Law № LRU-954, the Law “On Competition” № LRU 850, as part of the reforms on advancement in the field of competition development and consumer protection, is being amended, where business entity’s activities belonging to the subject of natural monopoly are going to be considered as entity’s main activity.

In order to liberalize the punishment system, those business entities with low economic impact degree, that committed a violation of competition law for the first time, will not be a subject to financial sanctions (penalties), instead, it will be getting a warning, preventing such an offence for the second time.

Financial sanctions in form of a fine shall be applied judicially, except when the offender admits the guilt and pays it voluntarily.

Receiving of warning, as well as paying a fine, does not exempt a person (entity) committing a violation of competition law from the obligation to comply with a decision (instruction) of an authorized state body or perform other actions covered by the competition legislature.

Competition Promotion and Consumer Protection Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan will have to coordinate projects on competition in commodity and financial markets and provide related government support.

Cases of violations of competition law with a low economic impact degree are determined by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Based on a Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 720 “On Measures to Improve and Comprehensively Systematize the Sphere of Public – Private Partnership” new Regulation covering implementation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects has been approved.

It defines following aspects:

* Initial Project Evaluation;

* Implementation of Project Initiative;

* PPP Project Preparation by Private and Public Initiator;

* Tender Documentation and Commission;

* PPP Agreement;

* Negotiation Procedures;

* PPP Projects Registry;

* PPP Projects Prices and Services Determination;

* PPP Projects Monitoring and Reporting Procedures;

* Project Financing Procedures;

* Cost Assurance and others.

For more detailed information, please read attached legal report.

According to the Presidential Decree № DP 109 «On Measures to Accelerate the Development of Factoring Services Market», starting from January 2025 it is allowed to establish factoring organizations engaged in financial activities for the assignment of monetary claims.

Factoring organization’s activity will be carried out after registration at the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, carried out by entering it into the registry as a non-bank credit organization.

Starting from January 2025, it will be allowed to:

– carry out factoring operations in foreign currency, if the client’s counterparty is a non-resident;

– to resell (refactoring) monetary claims acquired under factoring agreements to credit institutions.

Liability for violation of the prohibition on assignment of a monetary claim will be revoked.
In order to ensure the priority of claims for the assigned rights, notifications of the assignment of monetary claims are going to be registered in a collateral registry.

Change of currency of monetary obligations and the country of payment without the consent of the debtor will not be allowed.

Introduction of electronic platform for factoring services was also approved by the President.

Factoring platform will have following features:

– introduction by business entities of information and documents on monetary requirements for the use of factoring services;

– automation of financing process by verifying the authenticity of documents that are the basis of monetary claims, as well as ensuring the prompt collection of information about debtors and its analysis in real time;

– providing a convenient, fast and secure technological infrastructure for the provision of factoring services by credit institutions to participants in the supply chain.

In order to popularize and develop factoring services, develop industry standards, and strengthen ties between factoring market participants, based on initiative of commercial banks and microfinance organizations a National Factoring Association will be established.

In order to create opportunities for the widespread use of factoring in the implementation of foreign trade operations starting from January 1, 2025 on the basis of an agreement on the acquisition of receivables under an export contract:

– if the credit institutions providing factoring services (financial agents) are residents, information about them is entered into the Unified electronic information system for foreign trade operations as a recipient of foreign currency funds under the export contract and these financial agents are responsible for ensuring the fulfillment of the requirement to repatriate assets;

– If the financial agents are non-residents, the obligation to enforce the asset repatriation requirement remains with the exporter.

According to the Presidential Resolution «on Accession to International Treaties» № RP 362, in accordance with article 23 of the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan «On International Treaties of the Republic of Uzbekistan», Uzbekistan intends to join:

– The Second Additional Protocol to the General Regulations of the Universal Postal Union (Addis Ababa);

– The Third Additional Protocol to the General Regulations of the Universal Postal Union (Abidjan);

– Universal Postal Convention (Abidjan);

– The Final Protocol of the Universal Postal Convention (Abidjan);

– Agreement on Postal Payment Services (Abidjan);

– The Final Protocol of the Agreement on Postal Payment Services (Abidjan).

The Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan is going to be the competent authority responsible for the implementation of these international agreements.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan shall send to the Director General of the International Bureau of the Universal Postal Union a corresponding notification on the accession of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the specified international treaties.

The Cabinet of Ministers and the heads of relevant ministries and departments, after the entry into force of these international treaties, in accordance with the established procedure, shall ensure control over the implementation of their provisions.

According to the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan № LRU 988 “On Amendments to the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the Aim of Prevention of Corruption in the Field of Sports”, starting from November 4, 2024, the illegal receipt by an athlete, coach, sports referee or other participants and organizers of sports competitions of material values or property benefits for the performance or non-performance of a certain action in the interests of the person engaged in bribery, which they should have or could have committed in order to intentionally change the results or course of sports competitions is punishable by a fine from approx. 1450 USD to 2900 USD or deprivation of a certain right for up to 3 years or restriction of freedom from 1 year to 3 years or imprisonment from 1 year to 3 years.

Additionally, if the same actions will be committed repeatedly, on a large scale, by extortion or by prior agreement of a group of persons are punishable by a fine from approx. 2900 USD to 8800 USD or deprivation of a certain right from 3 to 5 years or restriction of freedom from 3 to 5 years or imprisonment from 3 to 5years.

The same actions committed on a particularly large scale by an organized group or in its interests will be punishable by a fine from approx. 8800 USD to 17500 USD or imprisonment from five to eight years.

A person who provided material values or property benefits is released from liability if extortion of material values or property benefits took place against him and this person voluntarily declared the incident within thirty days after committing criminal acts, sincerely repented and actively contributed to the disclosure of the crime.

This Law will serve to improve national legislation taking into account modern international standards and advanced foreign experience, form an uncompromising attitude towards corruption, ensure the inevitability of responsibility for crimes in the field of sports, as well as strengthen the image of the country in the international arena.

On December 31, 2022, a new Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On Electronic Commerce” entered into legal force, regulating relations in e-commerce field.
General provisions include following definitions:
digital products (electronic copies of intellectual property objects), as well as execution of certain actions in the electronic information environment or the implementation of certain activities that do not have a tangible result, including services for the purchase and subscription to cloud technology services;

electronic trading platform, an information system that allows the purchase and sale of goods (services) remotely;

electronic trading platform operator, a legal entity providing electronic trading platform services to ecommerce participants;
e-commerce, the purchase and sale of goods according to an agreement concluded through an electronic trading platform, using information systems within the framework of business activity;

e-commerce operator, a legal entity providing services related to the circulation of electronic documents and electronic messages;
e-commerce entities, e-commerce participants and/or e-commerce operators.

Main principals of e-commerce include freedom of doing business in e-commerce field, voluntary conclusion of e-commerce contracts, equality of conditions for participation in e-commerce, protection of rights and legitimate interests of e-commerce entities, proper quality of goods (works,
services), openness and transparency of e-commerce processes as well as information security.

E-Commerce Law also covers government regulations of e-commerce activity including powers of the Cabinet of Minster of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Moreover, it clearly specifies payment methods in e-commerce fields, certain specifics in terms of making payments, system of deposition (escrow) of funds as well as features of goods delivery, goods replacement with defects and/or elimination of those defects and terms of a refund.