Skip to content
Sign In Subscribe
Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: Tashkent East airport nears completion, Japan opens strategic talks, and bank loses license

,   and  Lexica
29 min read

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Politics

Regional Crackdown Urged on Central Asia’s Illicit Trade as Experts Flag Weak Enforcement

Published: 2025-08-28

An international roundtable in Tashkent examined illegal trade, gray markets, and parallel imports, warning of mounting fiscal, consumer safety, and investor confidence risks across Central Asia. BMF Research said contraband routes run via China and Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan, with major sales through large bazaars, informal retail, and online platforms; alcohol, pharmaceuticals, and tobacco are most exposed. TRACIT’s Jeffrey P. Hardy called for coordinated cross-border action and tougher penalties, citing a 30% shadow share in alcohol and growing local assembly of counterfeits.

"You can’t solve the problem only at the national level... If taxes are high in one country, goods will flow in from a neighbor." - Jeffrey P. Hardy, Director General, TRACIT (anhor.uz)

Legal experts highlighted digital marking and court mechanisms, while KNAUF’s sales director detailed widespread counterfeit building materials and slow, inconclusive litigation, underscoring the need to strengthen customs, expand product marking, and tighten accountability.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Economy

Regulator Revokes Eurasian Bank’s License; Forced Liquidation Follows Capital Shortfall

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank has revoked the banking license of the Uzbekistan subsidiary of Kazakhstan’s Eurasian Bank and initiated compulsory liquidation, citing failure to meet minimum charter capital and other regulatory requirements. The subsidiary received its license in January 2024 but, as of 1 August 2025, reported no loans or deposits and capital of 104 billion soums—well below the 500 billion soum floor set to apply from 2025 under phased reforms signed in 2023. Media reports indicate the bank posted a net loss of 51.6 billion soums in H1 2025. The decision reduces the number of banks operating in the country to 35. Eurasian Bank framed the exit as strategic refocusing on its home market, noting investment into the Uzbek unit had been halted earlier by board decision.

"The Management and Board of Directors approved stopping investments in the Uzbek bank well before any formal warning by the regulator." - Eurasian Bank statement (qalampir.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Uzcard Restores Services After Three-Hour Nationwide Payments Disruption

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzcard’s processing network experienced unplanned maintenance on 28 August, disrupting ATM withdrawals, POS and e-POS payments, mobile app transfers, and operations with international and co-badged cards, including abroad. The company’s website was also intermittently down, according to multiple outlets. Service issues surfaced around 12:30 local time and were resolved by approximately 15:53, with Uzcard confirming that mobile apps and all card operations had fully resumed. The incident underscores the concentration risk in Uzbekistan’s retail payments, where Uzcard is a core rail for domestic transactions. Businesses reliant on POS acceptance and users transacting cross-border were most affected during the outage window. Uzcard advised customers with pending or failed transactions to contact their bank or the call center (1257) for clarification, adding apologies for the temporary constraints.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Som Weakens as Central Bank Sets Higher Reference Rates for USD, EUR, and RUB

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank set new reference rates for August 29, lifting the U.S. dollar by 69.40 som to 12,482.38, the euro by 154.08 som to 14,540.72, and the Russian ruble by 0.95 som to 155.23. The adjustment signals renewed pressure on the som following a period of relative stability. For cash market participants, quoted bank spreads show dollars offered for sale around 12,410 som at several banks (Universalbank, Hayotbank, Garantbank, BRB), while buy-back rates are higher at others—Infinbank (12,460), Tengebank (12,470), Sederatbank (12,470), and Apexbank (12,500). The divergence between the Central Bank’s official rate and retail cash quotes suggests continued short-term volatility and varying liquidity conditions across institutions, relevant for pricing of imports, remittances, and near-term treasury planning.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Russia Extends Gasoline Export Ban Through October to Stabilize Domestic Supply

Published: 2025-08-28

Russia prolonged its temporary ban on motor gasoline exports until 31 October to support domestic market stability, with a blanket restriction applying to all exporters from 1–30 September and relief for producers starting 1 October; non‑producing exporters regain access from 1 November. The measure follows record wholesale price pressures and supply tightness after repeated strikes on energy infrastructure, which analysts estimate impaired about 17% of Russia’s refining capacity. Previous bans are commonly timed to peak agricultural demand. Deliveries under intergovernmental agreements remain exempt, so supplies to the EAEU, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia continue, according to Uzbek authorities. For Uzbekistan, the exemption helps buffer fuel imports while the country advances projects aimed at longer‑term oil self‑sufficiency in Surxondaryo within 2–3 years.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Planned VAT Reforms Expand Refunds, Ease Registration, and Support Hotels and Private Healthcare

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan plans wide-ranging changes to VAT administration and refunds under forthcoming laws and presidential and Cabinet decisions. Draft measures would allow businesses shifting to VAT to obtain special certificates without onsite checks if they hold real estate, with automatic certification for entities recognized as mandatory VAT payers under electronic oversight. Agriculture would gain a simplified VAT calculation regime. Exporters using national and foreign marketplaces could claim VAT refunds, with customs data flowing automatically to the Tax Committee to expedite verification. The Cabinet is revisiting hotel VAT refund criteria, moving away from a strict 90% hotel-revenue threshold to tiered rules by star rating to include more mid- and small-scale hotels. A partial VAT refund mechanism is proposed for private medical institutions based on annual turnover analysis to curb informality and boost transparency. From 1 January 2026, incentives to shift from turnover tax to VAT will include a one-year corporate income tax holiday, penalty waivers for reporting errors, and payroll deductibility for accountants.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Sirdaryo Investment Forum Opens in Gulistan with 20 Countries and Embassy Delegations

Published: 2025-08-28

The “Do Business in Sirdaryo” forum opened in Gulistan, bringing together around 300 foreign investors from 20 countries, over 200 local entrepreneurs, and representatives from the embassies of Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Hungary, and Tajikistan. The event showcases Sirdaryo’s investment potential, with presentations of priority projects and structured B2B and B2G meetings designed to catalyze partnerships. Delegations will also tour free economic zones and enterprises with foreign capital, and attend the city’s Qovun Sayli festival for cultural engagement. Organizers highlight Uzbekistan’s policy environment and ongoing joint projects, with participation from the Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade, and officials from China, Russia, Tajikistan, and Hungary. The forum continues tomorrow, signaling active regional outreach to attract diversified capital and expand cross-border industrial and trade links.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s O‘zcharmsanoat association held talks in Guangzhou with the Guangzhou Footwear Association (TAGSM) to attract Chinese investment and position Uzbekistan as a logistics bridge to Europe, Turkey, and the Middle East. The discussions, led by O‘zcharmsanoat chair Akbar Sultanov during a visit to China, focused on launching manufacturing lines in Uzbekistan, creating higher value-added production, and elevating the “Made in Uzbekistan” brand through joint ventures. Chinese stakeholders view Uzbekistan as cost-competitive with a strategically central location and preferential market access for certain exports, potentially enabling diversification for Guangdong-based firms facing rising labor costs. Both sides see Uzbekistan’s investment climate as secure and promising, with Shiling district’s scale in leather-footwear manufacturing underscoring the potential for supply-chain integration.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

German Incubator Practices Studied to Boost Rural Entrepreneurship in Fergana Valley

Published: 2025-08-28

An Uzbek delegation led by Davronbek Qurbonov, First Deputy Chair of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, visited Germany to examine business incubators, mentorship systems, and small business support models under the World Bank–backed “Fergana Valley Rural Entrepreneurship Development” project. In Munich, the team met the Bavaria East-West Business Forum (OWWFB) and its international business development representative Mursal Noorzay to explore applying German experience in processing agricultural products, expanding export capacity, and producing everyday consumer goods. The OWWFB, a platform connecting Bavaria and Eastern Europe since 2016, presented practices viewed as directly transferable to Uzbekistan’s rural enterprise ecosystem. The visit concluded with agreements to organize seminars, enable experience exchange, and establish direct cooperation with German mentors, signaling practical next steps for capacity building and market-oriented upgrades.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

JICA Grants ¥496 Million to UNDP for Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Support in Border Regions

Published: 2025-08-28

Japan’s development agency JICA signed a grant agreement with the UN Development Programme to provide 496 million yen for equipment purchases and training at a new learning center. The project targets economically vulnerable groups, including Uzbek youth and women, Afghan nationals residing in Surkhandarya, and Afghan women living in adjacent border areas. It aims to build vocational and entrepreneurship skills, expand job opportunities, and bolster economic self-reliance. By supporting livelihoods in communities hosting Afghans as well as across the border, the initiative seeks to contribute to local economic recovery and social stabilization. The funding underscores growing alignment between Japan’s development assistance and UNDP’s focus on resilience and inclusive growth in Central Asia’s border regions. No implementation timeline or specific training sectors were disclosed.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Korea Eximbank Signals Long-Term Commitment to Uzbekistan’s Growth and Industry Partnerships

Published: 2025-08-28

Korea Eximbank’s Tashkent office chief Kang Sangjin said the bank aims to support Uzbekistan’s business and sectoral development through policy-based experience and financial instruments, emphasizing long-term cooperation over short-term gains. He highlighted the country’s rapid growth from reforms and liberalization, noting improving investment conditions and complementary industrial and technological profiles between the two countries that position Uzbekistan as a key long-term partner for Korean companies.

"Our team is not limited to short-term outcomes; as in Korea, we aim to support Uzbekistan’s business and sectors using policy-based development experience and financial tools." - Kang Sangjin, Head of Korea Eximbank Tashkent Office (uza.uz)

Kang congratulated Uzbekistan on the 34th anniversary of independence and praised its achievements in domestic and foreign policy, the economy, and social sectors, expressing confidence in continued progress.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Talks with Mitsui & Co Explore Energy, Materials, and Infrastructure Projects

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade, Shohruh Gulamov, met Mitsui & Co. Vice President Yoshiaki Takemasu in Tashkent to advance joint initiatives in energy, construction materials production, and infrastructure development. The discussion also covered potential expansion into geology and urban planning projects, signaling broader strategic cooperation with one of Japan’s largest trading and investment houses. Mitsui & Co., part of the Mitsui Group, operates more than 500 subsidiaries and 126 offices across 62 countries, with active portfolios in machinery, energy, chemicals, mining, and metallurgy. For Uzbekistan, deeper engagement could bring long-term capital, technology transfer, and project management expertise to priority sectors, aligning with ongoing industrial upgrading and urbanization goals. No immediate deals were disclosed, but the agenda indicates a pipeline of co-investment prospects under review.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Chemical JV Planned with Egypt to Build Ammophos Plant

Published: 2025-08-28

Ammophos fertilizer production is set for expansion through a planned plant developed in partnership with Egypt, following a working visit by an “O‘zkimyosanoatloyiha” JSC delegation facilitated by the Uzbek Embassy. While specific capacity, location, and investment figures were not disclosed, the move signals a push to deepen industrial cooperation with Egypt and strengthen supply security for phosphate-based fertilizers. For international investors and agribusiness suppliers, the project suggests potential openings in engineering services, equipment supply, and logistics tied to phosphate feedstock and downstream fertilizer distribution. Key details to watch include the venture structure (JV or EPC), financing sources, technology licensors, and timelines for construction and commissioning, which will determine near-term market impact and export potential to Central Asian and neighboring markets.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Government Plans Local Production of Sugar Substitutes, Considers Excise Refunds for Beverage Exports

Published: 2025-08-28

Tashkent has tasked multiple ministries and agencies to draft by November 2025 a presidential decree to localize production of sugar substitutes and support food producers that fortify products with such components through grants, innovation programs, and concessional loans. The plan also proposes refunding excise taxes on carbonated, energy, and stimulant drinks purchased on the domestic market and exported, with refunds drawn from collected excise proceeds. The initiative follows a 2024 excise introduction of 500 soums per liter on sugary or sweetened sodas and 2,000 soums per liter on energy drinks, which industry says hit investments. During the August open dialogue with the president, UzBev’s executive director Alfiya Musina said the levy weighed on producers:

"For our association, 2024 has been a ‘minus year,’ in particular due to the excise on sugary drinks." - Alfiya Musina, Executive Director, UzBev (gazeta.uz)

Authorities also previously discussed joint projects with China’s Xinjiang Huijia Biotechnology to cultivate stevia as an input for natural sweeteners.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

MIAT Cargo Launches Navoiy Flights, Opening Livestock and Agri Trade Corridor with Mongolia

Published: 2025-08-28

Mongolia’s MIAT Mongolian Airlines Cargo has begun operations to Navoiy International Airport, marking a new cargo link under bilateral cooperation. The inaugural flight on 27 August delivered 26.8 tons of pedigree sheep to Uzbekistan. Through year-end, MIAT Cargo plans 106 flights, transporting live animals from Mongolia to Uzbekistan and sending agricultural products in the reverse direction. The route supplements four prior Ulaanbaatar–Navoiy services conducted by KAP KG, which will continue operating on this corridor. MIAT Cargo is the freight subsidiary of state-owned MIAT Mongolian Airlines. The stepped-up schedule signals deeper supply-chain integration between the two countries, leveraging Navoiy’s cargo hub to streamline livestock imports and agri-exports and diversify Uzbekistan’s air-freight partnerships.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

Japan’s Foreign Minister Courts Deeper Strategic Ties in Tashkent with First Bilateral Strategic Dialogue

Published: 2025-08-28

Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya paid a two-day visit to Uzbekistan on 26–27 August, meeting President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and holding the inaugural Strategic Dialogue with Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov. Both sides highlighted momentum in political contacts and practical cooperation, underscoring growing trade volumes and major Japanese-led investment projects. Discussions focused on advancing concrete initiatives in trade, investment, finance and technical cooperation, as well as expanding cultural and educational links, including plans to broaden the Uzbekistan–Japan Center and explore a joint university with leading Japanese institutions. Officials also exchanged views on regional issues and preparations for the forthcoming “Central Asia + Japan” summit. The visit followed Uzbekistan’s successful National Day at EXPO 2025 Osaka and concluded with a joint communiqué, signaling intent to institutionalize high-level engagement and diversify sectoral collaboration across the partnership.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Foreign Ministry Reaffirms Protection of Nationals Following Viral Abuse of Driver Near Moscow

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry issued a general reminder that citizens are protected by the state wherever they reside, following circulation of a video in which a man in Khimki, near Moscow, insults a taxi driver believed to be Uzbek. The incident, filmed at the “Solnechnaya Sistema” residential complex, shows a local man berating the driver with xenophobic language and referencing Uzbekistan’s economic conditions. The ministry urged affected individuals to file complaints with host-country law enforcement and, if needed, seek legal and consular assistance from Uzbekistan’s diplomatic missions. Gazeta.uz reported that no formal complaint from the driver has been received yet, but the statement applies broadly to citizens abroad, signaling a stance of readiness to assist while emphasizing procedural steps for redress through Russian authorities and consulates.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Central Asian Leaders to Join Beijing’s WWII Commemoration as China Showcases Military Hardware

Published: 2025-08-28

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is expected in Beijing on 3 September for ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the end of World War II. He will join 26 foreign leaders at a 70‑minute military parade on Tiananmen Square, where the PLA plans to display advanced missile systems, armor, aviation, and domestically produced drones. Regional participation is extensive, with leaders from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan also listed. The event underscores Beijing’s convening power and comes with high‑profile attendance by Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; Chinese state media frame Putin’s trip as affirming the depth of Sino‑Russian strategic ties. The visit follows Mirziyoyev’s January state trip to China, signaling continued engagement on political and economic agendas relevant to Uzbekistan’s external partnerships.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tokyo Reassures Tashkent on Russia Stance and 5+1 Engagement, Prioritizing Trade Corridors and Non-Military Ties

Published: 2025-08-28

Japan signaled its Russia policy will not impede ties with Uzbekistan, as Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya’s visit focused on economic cooperation and regional connectivity. Japanese officials emphasized that Central Asian states’ historic links with Moscow will not affect bilateral relations or investment prospects. They also promoted trans-Caspian routes, highlighting infrastructure and customs reforms to move goods to Europe.

"Japan regards Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a violation of international law… but we will not pressure other countries to adopt our position." - Takeshi Iwaya, Foreign Minister (qalampir.uz)

"We want to be seen as an economic partner. We have no military interests in this region and will not push Uzbekistan to follow Japan’s foreign policy path." - Toshihiro Kitamura, Foreign Ministry Press Secretary (qalampir.uz)

Japan reiterated its 5+1 format aims at pragmatic cooperation, not geopolitical competition, and framed upcoming initiatives around trade facilitation and protecting Japanese corporate interests in the region.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent and Moscow Coordinate Ahead of SCO and Russia–Central Asia Summits, Reaffirm Strategic Partnership

Published: 2025-08-28

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Baxtiyor Saidov held a phone call on 27 August to review bilateral ties and prepare for major meetings: the SCO Council of Heads of State in China (31 Aug–1 Sep) and the Russia–Central Asia summit in Tajikistan (9 Oct). Both sides emphasized ongoing work to deepen a comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance, aligning with prior presidential agreements. The agenda included trade, investment, cultural-humanitarian cooperation, and coordination in regional and international fora.

"We focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, cultural and humanitarian spheres, as well as further deepening collaboration within regional and international structures." - Baxtiyor Saidov, Foreign Minister (qalampir.uz)

The discussions, as reported by Russia’s MFA, did not publicly address recent online uproar over an abusive video in Russia allegedly targeting an Uzbek worker—an issue drawing regional and European media attention. The Uzbek MFA has not confirmed the victim’s nationality.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

US Special Envoy Paolo Zampolli Visits Tashkent, Delivers Trump’s Greetings and Sets Up Expanded Strategic Dialogue

Published: 2025-08-28

US Special Envoy for Global Partnerships Paolo Zampolli began his first official foreign trip in Tashkent, meeting Foreign Minister Baxtiyor Saidov and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The visit underscores a reset of high-level contacts as both sides prepare the first meeting of the Expanded Strategic Partnership Dialogue this autumn, building on annual strategic talks focused on security, trade diversification, agriculture reform, women’s economic participation, and clean energy. Officials highlighted growing economic ties: 2024 bilateral trade is up 15%, the project pipeline exceeds $11 billion, and over 100 US firms joined June’s Tashkent Investment Forum. Engagement will extend across minerals, aviation, electrical engineering, agriculture, digital tech, finance, innovation, and education, with C5+1 cooperation flagged as a priority.

"We held a productive meeting to build stronger bridges—from education and culture to innovation and business." - Baxtiyor Saidov, Foreign Minister (qalampir.uz)

"Please accept President Donald Trump’s sincere greetings and congratulations on Independence Day." - Paolo Zampolli, US Special Envoy, conveying the President’s message (qalampir.uz)

"This year, we are pleased to have the highest-level US representative at the Independence Day celebrations in Tashkent." - Jonathan Henick, US Ambassador (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Central Asian Envoys Form Afghanistan Contact Group in Tashkent

Published: 2025-08-28

Central Asian states established an Afghanistan-focused contact group following the first meeting of special envoys from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and the host country in Tashkent on 26 August. Initiated by Tashkent, the format signals a coordinated regional channel to address security, economic, and humanitarian issues linked to Afghanistan’s stability and cross-border dynamics. While details on mandate and next steps were not disclosed, the group could streamline dialogue on border management, counter-narcotics, refugee readiness, and trade corridors connecting South and Central Asia. The move aligns with broader regional efforts to engage Kabul pragmatically while managing risks. Observers will watch for a defined agenda, engagement mechanisms with Afghan authorities, and whether the platform evolves into joint projects or a standing forum with regular meetings and communiqués.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

Tashkent-East Business Aviation Airport Nears Completion, Easing Load on Main Hub

Published: 2025-08-28

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev inspected the nearly completed business and government aviation airport built on the Tashkent-East aerodrome, a 561-hectare site with a reconstructed 4 km runway, three taxiways, and apron space for 20 aircraft. Facilities include VIP and CIP terminals (CIP capacity: 100 passengers/hour), hangars for Boeing 787, A320, business jets, and helicopters, and ICAO III-A navigation and meteorological systems for low-visibility operations. The airport handled initial technical arrivals by a government Boeing 767 and a Pilatus PC-24. Officials say the location positions it as a transport hub for Tashkent and the planned New Tashkent, expanding official and business travel and improving conditions for foreign investors.

"We built this airport after many years of preparation. It will provide high-level service to visitors and aircraft, relieving the load on Tashkent International Airport. We also plan to build a large new complex for that airport at another site." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

ADB Approves $233M Loan to Rebuild A380 Segment and Build New Turtkul–Ellikkala–Beruniy Bypass

Published: 2025-08-28

The Asian Development Bank approved a $233.1 million loan to modernize a key 87 km section of the A380 highway in Karakalpakstan, including construction of a new 75 km Turtkul–Ellikkala–Beruniy bypass and reconstruction of 12 km of existing road. The project integrates climate-resilient features—cement-concrete pavement, higher embankments, and improved drainage—alongside intelligent transport systems, weigh-in-motion controls, and five service areas equipped with EV charging and enhanced amenities for women. Total project cost is $293.7 million, with the government contributing $60.6 million. Positioned on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, the upgrade supports rising corridor volumes that reached 4.5 million tons in 2024 and are projected at 5.2 million tons for 2025.

"These investments will reinforce the country’s role as a regional transit hub and support inclusive growth in Karakalpakstan, while climate-resilient infrastructure and intelligent systems ensure long-term sustainability and safer, more efficient travel for people and businesses." - Kanokpan Lao-Araya, ADB Country Director (gazeta.uz; anhor.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Senate Reviews Power Supply Upgrades, Plans 2025 Network Renewals

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s Senate discussed ongoing efforts to provide uninterrupted electricity to households, industry and social facilities, emphasizing grid modernization, commissioning of new generation and improved delivery systems. Power output in 2024 is reported 38% higher than in 2016, with electricity delivered to consumers up 48% over the same period. Authorities plan in 2025 to renew 4,530 km of low-voltage lines and 1,756 transformer points; to date, 5,829 km and 1,854 transformer points have been upgraded. The country operates 91 substations at 220–500 kV and 12.5 thousand km of transmission lines, plus 1,851 substations at 35–110 kV, 278.5 thousand km of networks and 97.9 thousand transformers. Between 2021–2024, 1,310 km of 110–500 kV lines were built, substation capacity rose by 9,348 MVA, and upgrades improved supply in over 8,000 mahallas. Senators also highlighted a shift to a two-stage system, wider use of energy‑saving equipment and solar panels, and sector digitalization. A decision to further improve the sector was adopted at the session.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

National Carrier Revises No‑Show Rules to Strengthen Passenger Rights

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s flag carrier is revising domestic ticketing rules to better align with consumer protection law and constitutional guarantees prioritizing citizens’ rights. Historically, missing the first leg of a round-trip caused automatic cancellation of the return segment, mirroring common international practice. Under the new policy, travelers who skip or cannot check in for the first leg may keep subsequent segments. If they inform an authorized agent in advance, the ticket can be reissued or refunded per fare rules. Without notice, reissue or refund of the unused portion is allowed but subject to a penalty equal to 100% of the original fare, while airport and airline fees are refundable. The Competition Committee welcomed the move as promoting fair competition and stronger consumer protections, bringing airline procedures closer to national legal standards.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Higher Fees Introduced for Overweight and Oversized Foreign Trucks Entering New Tariff Regime

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan has raised road-use charges for foreign heavy and oversized vehicles, following a Cabinet resolution amending the 1995 regulation on foreign freight traffic. Fees for exceeding a vehicle’s permitted gross weight are now set under new tariffs, with per‑kilometer charges in U.S. dollars roughly doubling on average depending on the tonnage over the allowed limit. Payments for axle overload have also increased under a revised schedule. For oversized dimensions, the fee rises to $0.32 per kilometer, up from $0.15. Application processing, route approval, and permit issuance for heavy and large-gabarit vehicles will be calculated in the “Litsenziya” information system as 54% of the base calculation amount (BHM) for routes up to 100 km (previously $5), plus 0.24% of BHM for each additional kilometer (previously $0.11). The decision was published in the national legal database and took effect on 27 August 2025.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Extra Tashkent–Olot Round-Trip Train Added for Peak Demand

Published: 2025-08-28

State rail operator “O‘zbekiston temir yo‘llari” introduced an additional passenger service on the Tashkent–Olot–Tashkent route to accommodate high demand and improve comfort. The train departs Tashkent-South station on 1 September at 23:56 and arrives in Olot at 09:22. The return leaves Olot on 2 September at 21:03, reaching Tashkent-South at 06:51. While framed as a one-off scheduling addition around early September travel, the move signals capacity adjustments on routes serving Bukhara region (Olot district) where rail is a key intercity option. Travelers should note the overnight timings, which align with common long-distance scheduling in Uzbekistan and may indicate testing for sustained or seasonal supplements if demand persists. No fare changes or equipment details were disclosed.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Society

19 kg of Kyrgyz gold jewelry seized in Fergana smuggling bust

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s State Security Service (DXX), working with Border Troops and its Fergana regional directorate, intercepted 19.1 kg of gold jewelry allegedly smuggled from Kyrgyzstan, valued at approximately 20 billion soums. Two residents of Fergana district, aged 32 and 34 (born 1991 and 1993), were detained after reportedly crossing the border outside official checkpoints. The seized items have been sent for expert examination, and authorities are considering opening a criminal case. The operation underscores heightened enforcement along the Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan frontier and comes ahead of updated rules from July 20, 2025, when individuals may bring in jewelry for personal use duty-free within set limits (USD 1,000 by air; USD 500 by rail/river; USD 300 by road/pedestrian), while exports without declaration remain capped at 65 g of gold items.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Police Custody Allegations Lead to Emergency Surgery in Namangan

Published: 2025-08-28

A 31-year-old man, Abdulahat O‘rmanov, was hospitalized in critical condition and underwent surgery to remove his spleen after two days in police custody in Namangan, according to the human rights NGO Ezgulik. NGO head Abdurahmon Tashanov said O‘rmanov was detained on August 14 and allegedly tortured by a local precinct officer and others, then taken to court on a minor hooliganism charge that the judge dismissed. His lawyer reported the case to the regional prosecutor, and medical records and videos reportedly document his injuries, including handcuff marks shown in photos. The incident underscores ongoing scrutiny of law enforcement practices and potential prosecutorial review in Uzbekistan as authorities face pressure to prevent torture and ensure accountability.

"On August 14, Abdulahat O‘rmanov was tortured for two days in the IIB building, sustaining life-threatening injuries." - Abdurahmon Tashanov, head of Ezgulik (anhor.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-08-28

Residents of 29 Quloqtepa Street in Tashkent’s Yunusobod district say a government-backed plan to convert the area into a 24/7 “gastronomic street” has resulted in a metal terrace built directly at first-floor window height, removing greenery and raising safety, sanitation, drainage, and privacy concerns. Locals claim they were promised general beautification but were not informed about the terrace; some officials allegedly suggested they sell their apartments if unhappy. City construction inspectors say the project is part of a coordinated tourism initiative and stress open dialogue, though residents report unanswered complaints and absent detailed plans. Potential violations cited include proximity to residential windows, lack of drainage, and fire and sanitary risks, with environmental review of tree cutting ongoing.

"They promised simple beautification verbally, but built the ‘overpass’ without our consent. There were no meetings or approvals — they caught us off guard." - Yelena Pavlikova, resident (gazeta.uz)

"There are no water drains. When it rains, water will wash our wall, causing dampness inside our homes." - Olga Smolyaninova, resident (gazeta.uz)

"Are we really unprotected by anyone?" - Olga Smolyaninova, resident (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Protective Orders Issued to Nearly 57,000 Women in First Seven Months as Digital Safeguards Expand

Published: 2025-08-28

Authorities issued 56,876 protective orders to women between January and July 2025, with police emphasizing the measure’s preventive purpose rather than a rise in violence cases. Orders trigger monitoring via the “E-himoya” system, where local committees assess root causes—such as unemployment—and coordinate support. Since May, inspectors-psychologists can also issue protective orders for minors experiencing any form of violence. Enforcement has tightened, with over 9,000 violations of protective order conditions penalized in the first half of the year. The approach integrates social services and rapid response through the E-himoya mobile app, which alerts patrol units if threats escalate.

"More protective orders do not mean violence has increased. Orders are issued to prevent repeat abuse and protect women at risk." - Nilufar G’iyosova, Deputy Police Lieutenant Colonel, Public Security Department (gazeta.uz)

"We use this document only to prevent crimes against women within families; without grounds, we cannot enter a residence." - Rahimjon Naimov, Deputy Head, Preventive Measures Service (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

Tashkent and Cairo Deepen Cooperation on Water Management and Conservation

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan and Egypt agreed to strengthen collaboration in water resources management following a meeting that emphasized shared historical and scientific ties, notably the legacy of scholar Ahmad al-Farghani and his 861 Nile water-level gauge. Discussions focused on efficient water use, groundwater research, and adoption of water-saving technologies—areas critical to both countries’ agriculture. The Egyptian side underscored readiness to share practical expertise on irrigation efficiency and conservation. Uzbekistan’s water minister was invited to Egypt Water Week in Cairo on October 12–16 to advance technical dialogue and project planning. The meeting concluded with a commitment to institutional cooperation in water management, which could open channels for technology transfer, joint studies on aquifers, and pilot programs in precision irrigation.

"We have substantial experience in using water wisely and conserving it, and we are ready to cooperate in this direction." - Ambassador Tamir Hammad (uza.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Tashkent Metro Phases Out Ticket Cashiers as E-Payments Expand

Published: 2025-08-28

Tashkent’s metro will eliminate cashier and senior cashier positions, moving fully to electronic payments and automated ticket machines by the end of 2025, according to the operator. Over 10 payment options are accepted, and machines are being installed across stations, with full rollout targeted by year-end. In the first phase, 204 cashier roles were cut. The administration links the decision to a sharp decline in cash purchases and the ongoing modernization of fare collection. A retraining package is offered to affected staff, with courses in fields such as accounting, tailoring, and confectionery funded by the metro enterprise. The shift mirrors broader digitization trends in Uzbekistan’s public transport, potentially improving throughput and transparency while requiring riders to adapt to machine- and card-based transactions. The metro also continues expansion planning, including a separate New Tashkent line scheduled for completion in late 2026.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Data-Localization Rules Stall Apple Pay and Google Pay Entry, Industry Urges Cloud-Friendly Revisions

Published: 2025-08-28

Uzbekistan’s data-localization requirement is blocking Apple Pay and Google Pay, according to TBC Uzbekistan CEO Nika Kurdiani, who cited restrictions on using foreign cloud infrastructure under the 2019 personal data law. He argued that many global services are cloud-only and cannot operate on local servers.

"We need a solution that both protects sensitive data from leaks and enables development of cloud-based technologies." - Nika Kurdiani, CEO, TBC Uzbekistan (gazeta.uz)

BILLZ co-founder and CEO Rustam Hamdamov said compliance hinges on world-class domestic data centers, which are costly and currently insufficient, noting local storage can be triple the price and vulnerable to power outages. He added that amendments are under review with startups providing input.

"Without sufficient capital, data centers won’t emerge... the absence of cloud infrastructure is seriously slowing company creation and growth." - Rustam Hamdamov, CEO, BILLZ (gazeta.uz)

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev recently tasked officials to explore allowing “cloud” storage following a proposal from TBC Bank Group’s Oliver Hughes, who highlighted impacts on fintech and AI capacity.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

ICT Week 2025 to Convene Global AI and Future-Tech Experts in Tashkent

Published: 2025-08-28

Tashkent will host ICT Week Uzbekistan 2025 on 23–26 September at the Central Asian Expo (CAEx), positioning the capital as a regional hub for dialogue on artificial intelligence and next‑generation technologies. The country’s largest ICT event is expected to gather international experts, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss adoption pathways, standards, and partnerships across the digital economy. For investors and technology firms, the timing signals a push to align national priorities with global AI trends, from enterprise automation to smart infrastructure. The CAEx venue offers scale for conferences, exhibitions, and B2B meetings, suggesting a focus on commercial deal-making alongside policy sessions. Organizers have not yet disclosed the agenda or participating countries, but the four-day program indicates multi-track discussions likely spanning AI governance, cybersecurity, data centers, and talent development.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Health

Regulatory Shortcut Enables WHO-Recognized Medicines to Bypass Re-Testing

Published: 2025-08-28

From 1 October, pharmaceuticals approved by regulators listed by the World Health Organization will be accepted in Uzbekistan without repeat clinical testing, streamlining market entry for widely used treatments. Beginning 1 January, medical products and equipment must be registered as medical devices, aligning classification and oversight with international practice. Retail licensing requirements for medical devices will be abolished, reducing administrative burdens on distributors and retailers. New certification rules will take effect in 2027, signaling a phased overhaul of quality and market controls. These steps aim to accelerate access to essential medicines, harmonize standards with global markets, and simplify the device supply chain, while shifting compliance costs toward updated registration and certification processes. No official statements were cited in the source article.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Central Asian University Signs Strategic Pact with Cleveland Clinic to Establish Teaching Hospital

Published: 2025-08-28

Central Asian University and Cleveland Clinic have signed a long-term strategic cooperation agreement to create a university-affiliated clinic in Uzbekistan under the Cleveland Clinic Connected program. The initiative is designed to transfer international clinical standards, governance practices, and training to support a teaching hospital model in Tashkent, aligning with broader healthcare modernization efforts. While detailed timelines and investment figures were not disclosed, the collaboration signals a move to elevate medical education, expand specialist training, and improve patient care pathways using Cleveland Clinic’s protocols. For international healthcare operators and investors, the agreement indicates growing opportunities in Uzbekistan’s medical services sector, particularly in tertiary care, accreditation, and workforce development, with potential ripple effects for insurance networks and medical technology suppliers.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Comments

Related

Latest