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Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: EU pact slated for signing, surprise labor raids set, and Tashkent hikes tariffs

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Politics

Parliament Advances Liability Reform to Reclaim Damages from Officials After Court-Confirmed Rights Violations

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s lower house approved in third reading a bill establishing uniform procedures to compensate individuals and companies for losses caused by unlawful decisions, actions, or inaction of state bodies and officials. Compensation will be paid from territorial compensation funds under the Karakalpakstan Council of Ministers, regional and Tashkent city hokimiyats, then fully recovered through regress from the culpable official once a court decision enters into force. The reform replaces a fragmented framework—previously split across more than ten laws and varying funding sources—creating a single national practice and clarifying recovery mechanisms. Lawmakers said the measure enforces constitutional guarantees that the state remedies harm while ensuring accountability for responsible officials. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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Citizen-Proposed Budget Moves to Promotion Phase; Voting to Decide Winners by 1 September

Published: 2025-08-19

“The ‘Open Budget’ portal has closed selection for Season 2 of 2025 and begun the promotion phase.” - Ministry of Economy and Finance (qalampir.uz)

Uzbekistan’s participatory “Tashabbusli budjet” program has advanced to a three-day promotion period from 19–21 August, preparing shortlisted community projects for a 10-day public vote from 22–31 August. Authorities say 22,623 proposals were submitted this season, with 18,656 clearing initial screening. Winners will be announced on 1 September, coinciding with Independence Day. Repeat-winning neighborhoods face cooling-off rules: districts that won consecutively across the 2024 Season 2 and 2025 Season 1 cycles will sit out the current Season 2 and 2026 Season 1 rounds, with exceptions where earlier projects were rejected. For 2025, state funding totals 5.4 trillion soums, with local budgets adding at least 30%, bringing expected financing for winning projects to roughly 6 trillion soums.

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Training and Certification Framework Planned for Public Procurement Specialists

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and U.S.-based Charles Kendall Consulting agreed to develop a national system to train and certify public procurement professionals. In an initial phase, stakeholders will map market demand, assess training centers and mentor capacity, and draft curricula and manuals for integration into educational programs. Certification is set to be a core feature, with a methodology to assess competencies and a designated authorized body to oversee it. The ministry’s in-house Training Center is proposed to host professional courses, upskilling, and certification processes. An interagency working group will steer priorities through year-end, including adding a “public procurer” occupation to the state civil service classifier. Parties also explored broader cooperation and agreed to continue negotiations across related areas.

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Customs Seize 3.2 Million Counterfeit Excise Stamps Trafficked via Kyrgyzstan from China

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s customs authorities confiscated 3.2 million counterfeit excise stamps intended for alcohol packaging, disrupting a cross‑border trafficking scheme that could have cost the state budget 34.2 billion soums. The operation, led by the Anti-Contraband Directorate with regional customs offices and law enforcement, followed intelligence from Kyrgyzstan’s customs service indicating 2.5 million fake Uzbek excise stamps were shipped by air on the China–Kyrgyzstan route to Bishkek. Arrests were made in Bishkek and subsequently in Uzbekistan’s Andijan and Samarkand regions, culminating in the detention of the alleged principal recipient in Samarkand, where 710,000 additional counterfeit stamps were found. Authorities say the stamps were produced in China, transited through Kyrgyzstan, and were destined for distribution inside Uzbekistan. A criminal case has been opened by customs bodies.

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Interagency Task Force Sets Agenda to Align IP System with International Standards

Published: 2025-08-19

An interagency working group comprising representatives from over 20 ministries and agencies convened its first meeting to map reforms that bring Uzbekistan’s intellectual property (IP) regime in line with international norms. Discussions focused on deepening cooperation with the World Intellectual Property Organization, launching joint projects, and adopting global best practices. The group outlined next steps and assigned tasks across institutions. Recent legal amendments, effective August 8, 2025, introduced criminal liability for violations of IP owners’ property rights and strengthened penalties for infringements of authors’ moral rights, while broadening the scope of protected IP objects. Authorities say the working group will help ensure effective enforcement, apply innovative approaches, and safeguard national interests as the IP framework is upgraded. No individual officials were quoted in the report.

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Economy

Surprise Labor Inspections to Begin in September as Penalties for Informal Hiring Rise

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan will overhaul labor enforcement from 1 September 2025, allowing state labor inspectors to conduct unannounced checks and eliminating the prior requirement to notify employers 10 days in advance. The measures were set by a 4 August presidential decree aimed at tightening compliance and modernizing oversight through risk-based assessments. Authorities will also escalate penalties for informal employment: initial violations draw fines of 30 times the base calculation amount (about 12.36 million UZS), rising to 100 times (about 41.2 million UZS) for repeat offenses. From 1 January 2026, administrative fines will be issued via the Unified National Labor System without the employer’s participation and delivered as electronic decisions. The Justice, Labor ministries and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry must submit enabling legislation to the Cabinet by end-August, signaling rapid implementation timelines for businesses.

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Tashkent Region Raises Heating and Hot Water Tariffs from 10 September

Published: 2025-08-19

Tashkent Region’s deputies approved higher tariffs for district heating and hot water, effective 10 September 2025. For households, the main provider “Issiqlik ta’minoti” proposes 102,810.4 soums/Gcal including VAT (up from 93,464), while tariffs for legal entities increase from 560,000 to 700,000 soums/Gcal. Overall, household prices rise about 10%, and wholesale/large consumers face hikes ranging from 8% to 95% depending on location and provider. The decision follows an earlier increase on 1 February and aligns with national plans to reduce subsidies and modernize networks as energy costs climb.

"We must revisit prices to renew the system and create better conditions, and that requires funding; the share of state subsidies in heat supply is very large." - Ilhom To‘rayev, Head of Heat Supply Systems, Construction and Housing-Communal Services Ministry (gazeta.uz)

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Tax Breaks Introduced for Polymer Inputs to Boost Higher-Value Manufacturing and Exports

Published: 2025-08-19

"Additional measures have been approved to support domestic producers of higher value-added products from ethylene and propylene polymers." - Presidential decree summary (gazeta.uz)

Uzbekistan will zero out excise on imported polyethylene granules not produced domestically and waive customs duties on select primary forms of ethylene (HS 3901 10 900 0, 3901 30, 3901 40) and propylene (HS 3902 10 000 0) polymers. The excise relief runs from 1 September 2025 to 1 January 2028; the duty waiver applies through 1 January 2028. Authorities also instructed customs, with the Technical Regulation Agency, to block substandard counterfeit flexible packaging imports under an ex officio approach, while ensuring equal excise treatment for local polyethylene granule producers. The policy aims to lower input costs, enhance competitiveness, and stimulate exports of higher value-added polymer-based goods, signaling regulatory tightening on counterfeit packaging alongside input liberalization for manufacturers. (gazeta.uz; uzdaily.uz)

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Regulator Confirms 19 Authorized Light-Vehicle Dealers to Curb Fraud Risks

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Technical Regulation Agency under the Cabinet of Ministers approved a list of 19 companies authorized to sell M1-category (light) vehicles nationwide, aiming to simplify purchases and reduce fraud exposure. The registry includes manufacturers and official distributors that have passed conformity checks. Authorities said the move is designed to guide consumers toward lawful suppliers while clarifying which vehicle models are officially cleared for sale. Notably, dealerships outside the list are not being restricted from operating, signaling a soft regulatory approach focused on transparency rather than enforcement. For market participants, the list formalizes compliance benchmarks and may influence brand positioning, warranty servicing, and import procedures. Consumers gain a reference point for verifying dealers and vehicle conformity, potentially affecting pricing, aftersales support, and dispute resolution across the sector.

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Power and Gas Interruptions Still Curb Business Capacity, Central Bank Survey Finds

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank reports energy supply disruptions remain the top constraint on firms operating at full capacity, despite improving sentiment. In Q2 2025, 61% of surveyed entrepreneurs said business conditions improved versus Q1, continuing a two-year trend above 50%. Gains were linked to better roads, energy provision, reduced administrative interference, stronger competition, and higher-quality banking services. However, respondents saw little change in tax administration, customs tariffs, access to credit, and licensing. Businesses cited electricity and gas outages as the primary bottleneck, alongside rising fuel costs, working capital shortages, tax complexity, and high rental expenses. More firms reported increasing debt obligations over the past three months, yet credit demand expectations remain positive, with notable rises anticipated in Kashkadarya, Namangan, and Tashkent regions. Tourism, construction, and handicrafts show particularly strong interest in new financing.

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Central Bank Lifts Official Exchange Rates for USD, EUR, and RUB

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank set new official exchange rates for 20 August, raising the U.S. dollar by 27.73 soums to 12,524.92. The euro advanced 32.39 soums to 14,630.36, while the Russian ruble increased 0.25 soum to 155.96. These adjustments reflect recent market dynamics used by the regulator to calibrate the daily indicative rate, which can influence import costs, foreign currency–denominated contracts, and short-term pricing for corporates. A stronger dollar and euro typically lift local currency expenses for energy, equipment, and other imported inputs, while the modest ruble move is less likely to alter cross-border trade with Russia materially. Businesses with FX exposure may see immediate accounting effects, and banks could adjust retail exchange boards accordingly. No accompanying policy guidance or intervention measures were announced with the rate setting.

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Special Economic Zone Planned on Singapore Model Following High-Level Industry Meetings

Published: 2025-08-19

A delegation led by Investment, Industry and Trade Minister Laziz Kudratov held talks in Singapore with Singapore Cooperation Enterprise, Sembcorp Industries, and Wilmar International, exploring the creation of a special economic zone (SEZ) based on Singapore’s model. The initiative signals an effort to import governance, infrastructure, and industrial park know-how from Singapore’s public–private ecosystem. For international investors, engagement with SCE suggests policy advisory and regulatory design support, while discussions with Sembcorp point to potential roles in utilities, energy, and industrial park development. Wilmar’s involvement indicates interest in agro-processing and logistics integration. Details on location, incentives, and timelines were not disclosed, but the move aligns with Tashkent’s broader strategy to attract FDI through benchmarked frameworks and operational standards proven in Southeast Asia. No official statements or commitments were quoted in the source report.

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BCG-Backed Strategy to Mobilize $150–200 Million for Karakalpakstan’s 2035 Development Plan

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan approved Presidential Decree PQ-248, launching a 2035 development strategy for Karakalpakstan built on a five-year program co-developed with Boston Consulting Group. The plan aims to attract $150–200 million in foreign financing and sets 2025–2026 targets: regional GDP up 6–6.5%, industrial output 5–6%, services 15–17%, and agriculture 4–5%. Priorities include green-standard upgrades across 11 social facilities, repairs on 151 km of roads, and expanded SME support via a new scheme from September 1, 2025, allowing the Entrepreneurship Development Company to inject equity-like funding up to 50% of last year’s revenue for qualifying firms. Additional measures: greenhouse projects (≥5 hectares) leased to low-income families at concessional rates, scholarships for up to 50 Karakalpak youth annually to study abroad with a four-year return service, and a new non-legal-entity Fund for Karakalpakstan’s socio-economic development, allocated at least 3% of the regional budget from 2026 to accelerate infrastructure and urgent communal projects.

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Sojitz Plans $1 Billion Push into Energy, Healthcare, and Airports with Uzbekistan PPPs

Published: 2025-08-19

Japan’s Sojitz Corporation plans to invest about $1 billion in Uzbekistan across energy, healthcare, and infrastructure, with a broader project pipeline valued at $5 billion. The company is advancing a PPP hospital in Samarkand, a 1,573 MW gas-fired plant in Syrdarya, and a 1 GW wind farm in Navoi, alongside airport development. Initial allocations include roughly $40 million to the Syrdarya-2 plant, $180 million for wind, $75 million for the Samarkand hospital, and $200 million for airport projects. Sojitz President Kosuki Uemura linked the expansion to policy openness and investor protections, following talks with government ministries on current and future deals.

"We value the country’s rapid development and the trust state agencies have shown us; this creates unique opportunities to implement our projects." - Kosuki Uemura, President, Sojitz Corporation (uzdaily.uz)

The company has maintained interest in the market for three decades and established a Tashkent office in 2004, positioning for long-term participation in strategic sectors.

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Universalbank launches “Microcredit 300” for self-employed, offering up to UZS 300 million over 60 months

Published: 2025-08-19

Universalbank introduced a new unsecured lending product for self-employed residents, “Microcredit 300,” providing up to UZS 300 million for terms up to 60 months, with a one‑month grace period and a 30% annual interest rate (subject to change by the bank’s board). Funds can be disbursed in cash or to a Universalbank card. Eligibility requires Uzbek residency, age 18+, and official self‑employed status. Documentation includes ID, proof of self-employment, a guarantor’s papers and income statement, and collateral documents if available. Security varies by amount: up to UZS 50 million requires a guarantor/insurance/other liquid security covering at least 125%; above UZS 50 million requires liquid collateral at a minimum 125% (130% for related parties). Repayments can be annuity or differentiated, with income sufficiency and positive credit history checks. Applications are processed at bank branches.

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ABU Sahiy Motors Secures Exclusive NIO Distribution as Partners Launch Smart EV Ecosystem in Uzbekistan

Published: 2025-08-19

ABU Sahiy Motors will become the exclusive distributor for China’s smart EV brand NIO in Uzbekistan under a new strategic partnership aimed at building a nationwide smart mobility ecosystem. The collaboration aligns the “Uzbekistan Sustainable Economy – 2030” strategy with NIO’s mission and targets upgrades in transport technology, service, and energy infrastructure. Plans include intelligent driving features, efficient charging, digital connectivity, and an energy service network designed to deliver a “worry-free” user experience while accelerating grid optimization and lowering carbon emissions. The companies position the deal as a platform for NIO’s Central Asia expansion, leveraging ABU Sahiy Motors’ local market expertise. International observers are cited as viewing the tie-up as a regional model for new energy transitions. > "Partnering with experienced local players and deep market insight allows us to bring smart EVs to new markets and advance our ‘Blue Sky is Coming’ mission." - William Li, Founder and CEO of NIO (uzdaily.uz)

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Humo’s Half‑Year Profit Jumps 73% as Fees Rise After Paynet Privatization

Published: 2025-08-19

Humo, Uzbekistan’s national interbank processing system, reported net profit of 124.3 billion soums for January–June 2025, up 73% year-on-year. Gains accelerated in Q2, when profit reached 76.2 billion soums—2.2 times the prior year—coinciding with sharp tariff increases following Paynet’s acquisition of the UzPaynet payment system. First-half revenue rose 60.4% to 224.9 billion soums, while service costs increased 43.6% to 64.7 billion. Retained earnings nearly doubled to 327.6 billion soums; gross profit climbed 68.3% to 160.2 billion. Paynet agreed to buy Humo for $65 million (840.3 billion soums), a valuation roughly equal to five years of 2024 profit, with growth potentially compressing the multiple to 2.5–3x next year. Despite official statements that payment has been completed, public registries still show 100% held by the state asset agency, leaving ownership status unclear.

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Diplomacy

Enhanced Partnership Agreement with EU Targeted for Signing in Coming Months

Published: 2025-08-19

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signaled that Uzbekistan plans to sign an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the European Union within months, framing it as part of a broader push to elevate ties with Europe and strengthen transcontinental links via Azerbaijan. He positioned Azerbaijan as a strategic bridge between Central Asia and Europe and emphasized ongoing work with EU partners on transport, logistics, and energy corridors that would reestablish the region as a vital East–West hub.

"We plan to sign the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the European Union in the coming months." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (kun.uz)

"Together with the European Union and other partners, we will continue developing effective transport-logistics and energy corridors." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uzdaily.uz)

The anticipated agreement would deepen political dialogue, trade, investment, and sectoral cooperation, aligning with Uzbekistan’s efforts to diversify markets and infrastructure connectivity across the Caspian route.

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China’s Hunan Delegation Explores Industrial, Logistics and Digital Partnerships in Tashkent

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade Ilzat Kasimov met in Tashkent with Vice Governor Wan Junshou of China’s Hunan province to advance cooperation across industry, transport and logistics, the digital economy, agriculture, and tourism. Both sides also discussed establishing a modern technopark in Uzbekistan, a move positioned to elevate bilateral ties and catalyze investment-led collaboration. The focus areas align with Uzbekistan’s push to diversify manufacturing and upgrade logistics corridors linking Central Asia and China. A technopark anchored by Hunan’s supply chains and digital capabilities could provide a platform for joint ventures, technology transfer, and skills development, while complementing ongoing transport connectivity projects. No concrete agreements were announced, but the parties signaled readiness to expand practical cooperation and create conditions for new investment projects.

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Foreign Minister Plans Official Visits to Bahrain and Qatar for Government and Business Talks

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov will lead a delegation to the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Qatar on 19–21 August 2025, according to the Foreign Ministry. The program includes official meetings with government representatives and negotiations with leaders of major companies. The itinerary signals a push to deepen political dialogue and expand commercial ties with Gulf partners, aligning with Tashkent’s broader strategy to attract investment and diversify trade links across the Middle East. Engagements with top firms suggest a focus on sectors such as energy, logistics, finance, and infrastructure, where Gulf states are active investors. The timing and dual-destination format indicate coordinated outreach to bolster bilateral agreements and explore project pipelines ahead of year-end economic planning.

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Published: 2025-08-19

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Five sister-region partnerships were established between five cities and districts of China and five counterparts in Uzbekistan during an exchange conference at the Kashgar Central and South Asia Trade Fair, according to Kun.uz. Relevant documents formalizing the “birodarlashgan hududlar” (sister jurisdictions) ties were signed at the event. While specific localities and sectoral priorities were not disclosed, such agreements typically facilitate subnational cooperation in trade promotion, investment matchmaking, tourism, education exchanges, and municipal services. For Uzbekistan, expanded city-to-city mechanisms with western China can support logistics links through Kashgar and deepen supply-chain integration for SMEs seeking Chinese partners. Further details on participating regions, timelines, and project pipelines will determine tangible outcomes for business engagement and public services.

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Infrastructure

High-Speed Afrosiyob Trains Launch Onboard Wi‑Fi Across All Routes

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Afrosiyob high-speed trains now offer onboard Wi‑Fi across all carriages and routes, with access via mobile number registration. State operator Uztelecom activated the service on 14 July; the Transport Ministry confirmed system-wide availability and assisted with approvals to install in-car equipment, addressing metal carriage structures that block external signals. Paid plans extend usage beyond a free initial period. The rollout aligns with plans to procure future trainsets pre-fitted with telecommunications hardware at the factory level, reducing retrofit needs and improving connectivity reliability for business and leisure travel.

"Fast-moving, metal-heavy carriages hinder external signals, so dedicated devices must be installed inside," - Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies (uza.uz)

"We hope new trains will come equipped from the outset with the necessary telecom gear," - Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies (gazeta.uz)

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Tashkent Reroutes 15 Bus Lines During Utility Pipe Repairs on Small Ring Road

Published: 2025-08-19

Tashkent’s Transport Ministry announced temporary changes to 15 bus routes as utility pipeline repairs proceed along the Small Ring Road between Qatortol Street and Bunyodkor Avenue, effective 18 August. The rerouting aims to maintain service while sections of the corridor are restricted for reconstruction. Authorities cautioned that traffic congestion could intensify near the works and signaled that further adjustments may follow as conditions evolve. For commuters and operators, expect extended travel times and revised stops along affected segments, with detours likely feeding pressure onto parallel streets. Businesses relying on just‑in‑time deliveries within central districts should plan for delays and consider alternative routing during peak hours. No end-date was specified for the repair window, indicating a rolling timetable dependent on construction progress and traffic management outcomes.

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Tashkent Plans Red Night Bus Network, First Route to Launch by End-2025

Published: 2025-08-19

Tashkent will introduce night buses operating 22:00–06:00 across a two‑phase rollout totaling 15 routes serving airports, rail stations, metro hubs, tourist corridors, malls, major bazaars, dormitories, and hospitals. The fleet will be red, with an initial 30‑minute headway. Phase one covers eight routes over 136 km with 31 buses (19.1 billion soums), while phase two adds seven routes over 98 km with 23 buses (14.2 billion soums). Officials expect 54 buses across all routes and estimate a 33.3 billion soum budget impact excluding fare revenue; tickets are planned to match daytime pricing despite proposals for higher tourist fares. The first line, T1, is slated to open by end‑2025, running from Husayn Boyqaro Street in Bektemir toward Qo‘yliq bazaar via Xonobodtepa Avenue.

"We proposed numbering them starting with T—T1, T2, T3—and plan to open T1 by year-end," - Olloyor Norbo‘tayev, acting head of Tashkent’s Transport Department (gazeta.uz) "T1 will run from Husayn Boyqaro Street to Qo‘yliq bazaar via Xonobodtepa Avenue by the end of this year," - Olloyor Norbo‘tayev (daryo.uz)

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Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan and Afghanistan energy companies signed contracts for four major grid upgrades following a July 3 meeting between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Taliban Deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in Khankendi, Azerbaijan. The package includes construction of the 500 kV Surkhan–Pul-e Khumri transmission line over 200.6 km with expansion of the Khoja Alvan substation; upgrading the Argandab substation to 500/220 kV and 800 MVA; a new 125 km dual-circuit 220 kV line from Butkhak (Kabul) to Shaykh Mesri (Nangarhar); and a new 220 kV Shaykh Mesri substation (2x25 MVA and 2x40 MVA). Groundbreaking is planned in Kabul during the International Energy Conference on September 6–7, with completion targeted by Q1 2027. The sides also aim to maximize local inputs, digitize settlements, modernize networks, and expand workforce training—indicating a durable, systems-level partnership on electricity trade and reliability.

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Published: 2025-08-19

Authorities plan to launch helicopter services between Fergana and the Uzbek exclave of Shohimardon, easing access to a popular mountain retreat that currently requires transiting Kyrgyz border crossings. Border posts on the Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan route now operate 24/7 and ID cards are accepted as primary documents, driving traffic to roughly 15,000 daily crossings on the Shohimardon route and nearly doubling visits in 2025 to date versus 2024. Officials said government-level approval has been signaled for the helicopter route, with landing pads being prepared in Shohimardon and Yordon. The region is also introducing aerial sightseeing over Fergana, Shohimardon, and Sokh via a local operator, broadening tourism offerings with flight-based experiences. > "A green light has been given at the government level to start a Fergana–Shohimardon helicopter service; we are now arranging aircraft and landing sites." - Muhammadjon Obidov (uza.uz)

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Voltalia, CMEC Advance 100 MW Solar Plant in Khorezm, Lifting Capacity by 30%

Published: 2025-08-19

France’s Voltalia and China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) are building a 100 MW photovoltaic plant in Tuproqqal’a district, Khorezm—one of Uzbekistan’s largest ongoing green energy projects. Spanning about 180 hectares with over 180,000 panels, the project is set to power approximately 60,000 households, create 250 jobs, and help the district fully meet its 135 GWh annual electricity demand. Regional generating capacity would rise 30% to 424 MW, while natural gas savings and emissions cuts are projected at 106,000 tons annually. The initiative aligns with national targets to supply 40% of energy from renewables by 2030 as population surpasses 40 million. > "By 2030, 40% of energy demand for the new economy will be met from green sources." - Shahnoza Qalandarova, head of press, Khorezm regional construction and utilities inspectorate (uза.uz)

"This photovoltaic station is our third project in Uzbekistan, and we aim to deliver it on time and with quality." - Andy Xie, chief specialist, CMEC (uза.uz)

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Transport Ministry, World Bank Discuss Upgrades to Networks, Digitization, and Urban Micromobility

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Transport Ministry held talks with the World Bank on advancing major transport reforms and projects, signaling continued multilateral backing for sector modernization. First Deputy Minister Mamanbiy Omarov met Vinnie Wei, head of the Bank’s Central Asia infrastructure group, to review current collaborations and pipeline initiatives. Priorities include improving national transport infrastructure and intercity connectivity, accelerating sector-wide digitization, and enhancing urban mobility through micromobility solutions. The agenda also covered workforce development, notably upskilling transport specialists and raising qualifications for bus drivers—key to safety and service reliability. For international stakeholders, the dialogue indicates a coordinated approach to financing and technical support, with potential near-term project preparation across urban and intercity corridors that could shape procurement opportunities and standards alignment in Uzbekistan’s transport ecosystem.

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Society

Roof Fire Contained at Tashkent’s Islamic Civilization Center Construction Site

Published: 2025-08-19

A fire broke out on the roof of the under-construction Islamic Civilization Center in Tashkent’s Olmazor district on 19 August, triggered during installation of insulation materials when technology requirements were breached, according to the Emergency Situations Ministry. The blaze was contained at 11:32 and fully extinguished by 11:34, damaging 19 sq m of roof insulation only. No injuries were reported; the building’s interior and collections were unaffected, and no rare exhibits were stored on-site at the time. Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and Tashkent Mayor Shavkat Umurzoqov visited the site shortly after the incident, underscoring the project’s profile ahead of an anticipated opening later this year. The ministry initially posted and then removed an early alert before issuing clarified details on the cause and scope of the incident.

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Nationwide Crime Sweep Seizes 557 kg of Narcotics During Month-Long Campaign

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Interior Ministry reported the seizure of 557.5 kg of narcotics and 376,500 units of potent pharmaceuticals during the second phase of the “Safe and Healthy Country” campaign from July 15 to August 15. Authorities conducted 14,167 operations that uncovered 2,599 drug-related offenses, alongside 1,576 organized crime cases, 1,650 corruption cases, and 4,653 other violations. Police also dismantled 10,500 poppy plants, detained 91 individuals linked to “dead drop” distribution schemes, and removed 1,751 graffiti advertisements for online drug shops. The scale and breadth of the enforcement push indicate a broad internal security and public health drive linking narcotics control with anti-corruption and organized crime efforts. For businesses, the expanded policing of online and physical channels suggests tighter compliance scrutiny in logistics, e-commerce, and pharmaceuticals.

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Environment

Uzcosmos and UNESCAP Develop Satellite-Based Drought Monitoring for Central Asia

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s space agency Uzcosmos is partnering with the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) to build a remote-sensing drought monitoring system for Central Asia. The project will support Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan with tools for rapid drought tracking and a cloud platform for crop monitoring, tailored to each country’s conditions. Authorities emphasize that climate change and mismanagement of water resources are intensifying evaporation, reducing river flows, and shrinking glacier reserves—threats to agriculture, energy, and social stability. The system will leverage MODIS, Sentinel, and Landsat imagery, along with indicators such as NDVI, to assess soil moisture, vegetation health, and water bodies. Work on the national drought monitoring framework began in May 2025, with stakeholders convening on 18 August in Tashkent to coordinate implementation and resource needs.

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Kazakhstan Urges Central Asia to Enforce Fair Water-Sharing as Sirdaryo Inflows Drop

Published: 2025-08-19

Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev pressed Central Asian states to move from statements to concrete cooperation on transboundary water at the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination meeting, citing shortfalls tied to drought and heat. The Sirdaryo’s main channel is receiving 30–40% less water than usual, straining irrigation in Turkistan and Kyzylorda. Kazakhstan reports it is over 1 billion cubic meters behind on scheduled deliveries, even as Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan plan to send 600 million cubic meters to ease southern irrigation deficits. Bozumbayev emphasized the need for trust-based joint action and full implementation of agreed decisions to safeguard downstream supply and regional agriculture.

"These are not just numbers; this is a real risk to downstream water supply... countries must not stop at declarations but move to practical steps." - Kanat Bozumbayev, Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan (daryo.uz)

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Mongolian ‘Bayad’ Sheep Airlifted to Navoiy, Import Duties Cut as Meat Supply Push Accelerates

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan has begun airlifting Mongolian “Bayad” sheep to Navoiy for breeding, with the first batch arriving and a schedule set for 60 flights delivering 50,000 head by end-October and another 50,000 in November–December, targeting 100,000 by end-2025. Tashkent reached a deal with Mongolia to lower export duties on sheep and goats from $18 to $7 per head, following talks with Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan. Contracts were signed between Mongolian suppliers and over 40 Uzbek farms, while cooperation was established with 27 Mongolian meat processors to triple imports next year to 3,000 tons of affordable, quality meat. The initiative aligns with recent Uzbek reforms transferring 15.8 million hectares of pastures to the Veterinary and Livestock Development Committee and subsidizing imported breeding stock, aiming to reduce prices, improve genetics, and stabilize supply in a growing market.

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Innovation

Qoraqalpog‘iston Plans Dedicated Crypto Mining Zone with Renewable Power and Special Tariffs

Published: 2025-08-19

"By September 2025, a draft presidential decision on establishing a specialized mining zone in Karakalpakstan will be prepared and, following interagency coordination, submitted to the Cabinet in November 2025." - Summary of presidential decision (gazeta.uz)

Uzbekistan plans a specialized crypto mining zone in Karakalpakstan under a presidential program for 2025–2026 socio-economic development. The draft decision, to be developed by the National Agency for Prospective Projects and the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade by September 2025, would permit mining operations using renewable energy sources and apply special tariffs for users connected to the unified power grid. The proposal aligns with existing rules requiring mining to be conducted by legal entities using electricity generated from solar photovoltaic plants and operating under a licensing regime introduced in 2023. If approved after interagency review, the measure could centralize mining activities, guide energy usage toward renewables, and clarify pricing and compliance for market participants.

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New Rule Mandates Dedicated Cybersecurity Units in Commercial Banks

Published: 2025-08-19

Uzbekistan’s Justice Ministry registered a regulation setting minimum information and cybersecurity requirements for commercial banks (No. 3669, Aug. 18). The rule requires every bank and its branches to establish a dedicated service responsible for safeguarding information assets, preventing unlawful alterations of payment data, and mitigating harm to banks and customers. Institutions must adopt a formal internal information security policy and strengthen database configurations to prevent misconfigurations. Banks are also obliged to continuously analyze logs from firewalls and proxy servers; upon detecting external attacks, they must immediately notify the Central Bank. The move aligns with broader regional efforts to harden financial sector defenses and may trigger upgrades in monitoring, incident response, and compliance functions across the banking system.

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Published: 2025-08-19

SpaceX’s Starlink could begin satellite internet service in Uzbekistan in 2026, according to the platform’s official availability schedule. The rollout has slipped several times: initially planned for 2023, then moved to 2025, and now indicated for 2026. The regional timeline is accelerating elsewhere—Kazakhstan saw commercial service start on 13 August 2025, while Kyrgyzstan is expected to come online this year. Turkmenistan and Tajikistan are likewise slated for 2026. For Uzbekistan, a 2026 start would align with broader Central Asian deployment and could widen connectivity options for remote users and enterprises, contingent on licensing and local market integration. SpaceX had signaled readiness to implement major projects in the country as early as 2022, but market entry has awaited regulatory and logistical alignment.

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Health

Health System Overhaul Advances with Neurology Center, Lab Network and Education Reforms Approved

Published: 2025-08-19

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed and approved a broad package to decentralize care and raise clinical quality, shifting load from national hospitals to regional facilities. Authorities will update 1,500 clinical protocols to international standards, digitize patient pathways, and deploy AI-driven screening, telemedicine, EKG telemetry, thrombolysis, stenting and thrombectomy to curb strokes and heart attacks. A 250-bed National Neurology and Neuro‑Rehabilitation Center in Tashkent will be built with capacity for 3,000 surgeries annually; Samarqand and Bukhara university clinics will receive equipment, and 150 specialists will train abroad. A master plan will map and digitize the system, revise 210 sanitary norms, and standardize facility designs. By 2030, 198 centralized labs will be created with full digital processes and expanded free tests. Nursing education will adopt NCLEX-based certification, with new family medicine and internatura programs. Pharmaceuticals regulation will recognize trusted foreign registrations, require bioequivalence, and expand tech transfer.

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