Skip to content
Sign In Subscribe
Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: King Abdullah II’s Samarkand visit, cobalt output slides again, and Tashkent shuts Shota Rustaveli for works

,   and  Lexica
23 min read

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Sports

Arts

Politics

Published: 2025-08-24

Tashkent region governor Zoyir Mirzayev addressed why district deputy governors are frequently caught taking bribes, speaking during the Uzum Sayli festival in Parkent on August 22. He suggested improved pay and benefits for officials reduce financial motives but argued sudden exposure to privilege can still drive graft.

"Today, with salaries, leave, official housing, and cars in place, does a district governor still need to take bribes? Let’s first answer that question." - Zoyir Mirzayev (gazeta.uz)

"Everything is good, but as we say, ‘woe to the one who sees what he has never seen.’" - Zoyir Mirzayev (gazeta.uz)

His remarks follow a string of recent arrests: deputy governors in Jizzakh’s Forish and Karakalpakstan’s Beruniy and Takhiatash districts, Andijan’s Khanabad city, and Kashkadarya’s Dehqonobod were detained over alleged payments ranging from 7 million soums to $30,000, typically tied to land allocation or use. A Chirchiq deputy mayor was previously accused of seeking $1 million linked to land rights. The pattern underscores persistent corruption risks in local land administration despite higher official compensation.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan has amended the Administrative Liability Code to penalize unlawful interference in the activities of non-governmental, non-profit organizations (NGOs), according to kun.uz. While the article provides limited detail, the change signals a formal move to deter intrusive oversight or obstruction of NGO work by individuals or entities without legal authority. The update aligns with broader regulatory adjustments in recent years aimed at clarifying the operational environment for civil society groups. For international organizations and local partners, the amendments may offer a clearer compliance framework and potential legal recourse if interference occurs. Specific fine amounts, enforcement mechanisms, and responsible authorities were not disclosed in the brief report, leaving practical implementation details to be clarified through subsequent regulations or official guidance.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

State Honors Conferred on Military and Law Enforcement for Independence Day

Published: 2025-08-24

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree awarding a group of service members and law enforcement personnel on the 34th anniversary of state independence, recognizing their role in strengthening national security and rule of law. The honors cite contributions to improving the Armed Forces’ combat readiness, safeguarding national interests, maintaining peace, and reinforcing public order. Recipients were praised for bravery, dedication, long service, and active civic engagement. Decorations span high state orders and medals, including the Order of Glory (1st degree), Order of Bravery, Order of Friendship, Medal of Courage, Medal for Faithful Service, Healthy Lifestyle Medal, and the Shukhrat Medal. The awards underscore ongoing government emphasis on institutional discipline and public safety as part of broader state-building priorities. No individual awardees were listed in the article.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Economy

Cobalt Output Declines for Fourth Straight Month as Market Shifts to New Models

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan’s most popular car model, the Cobalt, recorded a fourth consecutive monthly production decline, with July output down about 15% year-on-year, according to local reports. In January–July 2025, automakers produced 212,100 passenger cars, but Cobalt volumes totaled 83,167 units—1.9% lower than a year earlier—suggesting sustained softening in demand for the model. Other segments expanded: Damas (+5.5%), Tracker (+12.9%), Onix (+2.7%), KIA (+27.6%), and special light vehicles (+88.8%). Newer or newly localized brands gained traction, including BYD (8,601 units, first-time output over the past year) and Haval (over sevenfold increase), indicating intensifying competition. The period also saw 2,335 trucks and 131,800 engines produced. Analysts link Cobalt’s slide to shifting consumer preferences and the entry of additional brands reshaping the market mix and pricing dynamics.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Surxondaryo District Chief Fined for Lagging Investment and Export Targets

Published: 2025-08-24

Sherxon Allamurodov, hokim of Qiziriq district in Surxondaryo, received a disciplinary penalty for underperformance on foreign investment absorption and export indicators in the first half of 2025. Regional governor Ulug‘bek Qosimov issued the 23 August order imposing a reprimand and a fine equal to 30% of Allamurodov’s average monthly salary under Article 312 of the Labor Code, signaling tighter accountability for local economic targets. Allamurodov, a former Interior Ministry officer appointed district chief on 27 January 2025, had previously led law-enforcement units in the region. The move underscores pressure on district administrations to convert investment pledges into realized capital and to support export growth, areas central to Uzbekistan’s regional development agenda and performance-based oversight. No official reaction from Allamurodov was reported, and no changes to his position were announced.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Women Entrepreneurs Recognized in Namangan and Bukhara Competitions, Highlighting Credit Access and Export Gains

Published: 2025-08-24

Namangan and Bukhara hosted regional finals of O‘zLiDeP’s annual “Businesswoman” competition, underscoring women’s role in small business, export development, and job creation. In Namangan, more than 200 participants advanced from district rounds, with 16 reaching the regional stage. Hakimakhon Toshmatova won first place, followed by Sanobarxon Tojiboyeva and Sojidakhon Ortiqova; winners received cash awards and gifts. Party officials said the initiative bolsters women’s entrepreneurial capacity and national development.

"Our party implements numerous projects to develop women’s entrepreneurship and support them. Under the ‘Bunyodkor Ayollar’ program, many women obtain preferential loans to grow their businesses, while the ‘Women for Innovative Development’ initiative helps export locally produced goods." - Orifjon Mahmudov, O‘zLiDeP Namangan regional council official (uza.uz)

In Bukhara, over 500 women competed from mahalla-level rounds; 13 finalists contested regional awards. First place went to Surayyo Sharopova (Basiyr LLC), whose multi-profile factory employs 20 workers and exports to Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Karakalpakstan. Second and third places went to Shahlo Mamedova and Dilovar Boltayeva, respectively, with Mamedova’s ateliers and workshops employing over 80 women across the region. The events signal ongoing political backing and financing channels for women-led enterprises, with export links already in place.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Business Amnesty, Fuel Output Slump, and Dollar Weakness Mark Weekly Developments

Published: 2025-08-24

A presidential meeting with entrepreneurs previewed a “business amnesty” and regulatory relief designed to ease compliance burdens and encourage formalization, signaling a pro-growth tilt in the business climate. Energy data showed a sharp decline in gasoline production; authorities are banking on a new supply contract to stabilize the market, though timelines and volumes were not disclosed. Gold export revenues rose 1.8 times, pushing the exchange rate to a 20‑month low for the dollar, underscoring stronger hard‑currency inflows and improving external balances. Regional integration advanced as leaders from Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan held a trilateral summit, with plans for vessels to sail under Uzbekistan’s flag in the Caspian—expanding logistics options for trans-Caspian trade. The week’s signals point to near-term liquidity strength, potential fuel market normalization, and a continued push to streamline business operations and diversify transport corridors.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Fuel Imports Rise as Domestic Output Falls; Average Landing Cost Seen at $573/Ton

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan imported 462.4 thousand tons of gasoline worth $265.2 million in January–July, averaging $573.6 per ton, according to the Customs Committee data cited by Daryo. This equates to roughly $0.42–0.43 per liter; using the Central Bank’s exchange rates through July, the import cost averages about 5,500 soums per liter. Exchange-rate dynamics saw the dollar peak near 13,000 soums in January and ease to 12,591 by end-July. On the commodity exchange, Ai-80 rose from 9.33 million soums/ton (about 6,700 soums/liter) on January 4 to over 10.5 million (around 7,500 soums/liter) by July 22. Ai-92 traded near 12.66–12.79 million soums/ton (about 9,600–9,700 soums/liter). Domestic gasoline output fell 15.7% year-on-year to 667 thousand tons over seven months, underscoring a tighter balance between production and import reliance.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Deal Activity Accelerates as Retail, Fintech, and Platforms Secure Major Funding and M&A

Published: 2025-08-24

Private-sector deal flow has intensified over the past five months, marked by sizable fundraising and consolidation across retail, fintech, and digital platforms. Grocery chain Korzinka secured $110 million from foreign investors, signaling continued appetite for consumer-facing assets. Super-app player Uzum raised nearly $70 million, reinforcing competitive dynamics in e-commerce and fintech. In payments and banking, Click shareholders combined forces with Tengebank through transactions valued at $247 million, pointing to deeper integration between payment services and licensed banking. Regional expansion also advanced: Georgia’s TBC ecosystem acquired OLX Uzbekistan and BILLZ, extending its footprint in classifieds and retail tech. Together, these moves indicate rising investor confidence, a deepening capital market for high-growth operators, and growing cross-border ownership in Uzbekistan’s digital and consumer sectors.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Industrial Output Expands 6.5% in Jan–Jul as Manufacturing Leads, Mining Slips

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan’s industrial output reached 575.6 trillion UZS in January–July 2025, up 6.5% year-on-year, according to the Statistics Agency. Manufacturing dominated with 489.4 trillion UZS (85% share), while mining contributed 43.2 trillion UZS (7.5%), electricity, gas and steam 39.8 trillion UZS (6.9%), and water and waste services 3.2 trillion UZS (0.6%). Regional leaders by total output were Tashkent city (108.3 trillion UZS), Navoi (104.1 trillion), Tashkent region (85.4 trillion), and Andijan (54.9 trillion). Output per capita was highest in Navoi at 94.7 million UZS, vs a national average of 15.2 million. Key product trends: cement production rose 25% to 11.3 million tons and coal increased 11% to 3.8 million tons, while crude oil extraction fell 10.8%, signaling supply risks for downstream sectors and a potential need for policy measures to stabilize feedstock.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Airport Body-Camera Tender Voided After Affiliation Concerns Surface Post‑Award

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan Airports clarified that a body‑camera procurement initially publicized at 6.8 billion soums reflected the starting price based on average commercial offers, while the signed contract totaled 4.3 billion soums including VAT. The company said all stages of the open tender on etender.uzex.uz—document publication, bid collection (10–17 July 2025), and evaluation—followed procurement rules, with two bids received and the lowest price winning automatically. Tender officials stated they had no information on any affiliations during evaluation; a third firm cited in reports did not participate and merely shared a registered address with the reserve winner. After completion, potential inter-company links were identified, prompting the Anti-Corruption Agency to issue a mandatory submission under Presidential Decree PF‑6013. The procurement commission then annulled the results, confirming equal participation rights for residents and non-residents and noting no direct links were established during selection.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Three-Nation Central Asia Tourism Loop Proposed to Boost Cross-Border Travel

Published: 2025-08-24

Turkmen media highlighted a new cross-border tourism initiative linking Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan through a proposed loop covering UNESCO World Heritage sites and culturally significant destinations. The plan, anchored in a presidential decree to sharply expand tourist flows in 2025–2026, envisions a “Turkmenistan–Khorezm–Karakalpakstan–Kazakhstan” corridor developed with the tourism departments and companies of Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan. The route would connect 16 UNESCO-listed sites and additional national/regional landmarks, including Ancient Merv and the Darvaza gas crater in Turkmenistan; Ichan Qala, Topraq Qala, and the Savitsky Museum in Uzbekistan; and Bozzhyra Valley and Shakpak Ata in Kazakhstan. Authorities promote both independent and group travel, leveraging established ethnographic tourism, crafts, gastronomy, and varied landscapes from deserts to mountain ranges, to position the corridor as a discovery route for culture, history, art, and nature enthusiasts.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Namangan Tax Chief Engages SMEs as New 1% Turnover Regime Highlighted for 2026

Published: 2025-08-24

Namangan region’s tax authority met over 30 small and medium business representatives in To‘raqo‘rg‘on, addressing compliance issues and pledging follow-up actions. The discussion centered on recent national signals to ease the tax burden, notably a planned 1% tax rate for entrepreneurs with annual turnover up to 1 billion soums starting in 2026. Local business figures framed the shift as a catalyst for reinvestment and job creation, while officials emphasized legality, transparency, and anti-corruption in SME development. The session underscored the government’s push to formalize and expand the private sector by simplifying obligations and improving dialogue between tax officials and businesses.

"From 2026, entrepreneurs with up to 1 billion soums in turnover will be able to pay tax at just one percent—this is a big relief for thousands of small businesses." - Okilkhon Naimov, entrepreneur (uza.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

Jordan’s King Abdullah II to Pay State Visit to Samarkand for Broad Economic and Political Talks

Published: 2025-08-24

Jordan’s King Abdullah II will make a state visit to Uzbekistan on 25–26 August, with the main program hosted in Samarkand. Meetings will center on expanding political dialogue and deepening trade, investment, and sectoral cooperation—specifically in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, textiles, and mining—alongside broader cultural and humanitarian exchanges. The agenda also includes discussions on current international and regional issues, signaling a potential alignment on Middle East–Central Asia priorities. The visit is expected to conclude with the signing of multiple bilateral agreements, indicating a push to formalize project pipelines and institutional ties. The timing follows the recent accreditation of Uzbekistan’s new ambassador to Jordan, suggesting diplomatic momentum that could translate into near-term commercial opportunities and structured cooperation channels across priority industries.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Extends Independence Day Greetings to Ukraine, Signaling Continuity in Bilateral Engagement

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan marked Ukraine’s Independence Day with coordinated messages from both the embassy in Kyiv and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, underscoring continuity in diplomatic engagement despite the ongoing war. The embassy’s public note emphasized peace, stability, and prosperity for Ukraine, aligning with Tashkent’s cautious, neutrality-leaning diplomacy. President Mirziyoyev sent a personal congratulatory letter to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, highlighting confidence in long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation and people-to-people ties, including humanitarian programs for Ukrainian children. Zelenskyy publicly acknowledged the message and referenced Tashkent’s stance on Ukraine’s territorial integrity and humanitarian support—an implicit affirmation of previous Uzbek positions that resonate with international legal norms.

"I wish you robust health and success in your responsible work, and peace and prosperity to the Ukrainian people." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (gazeta.uz)

"I appreciate your position on Ukraine’s territorial integrity and the humanitarian initiatives that enabled Ukrainian children to rest in Uzbekistan." - President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Avaza Summit Launches Azerbaijan–Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan Bloc on Transit, Energy, and Tariff Integration

Published: 2025-08-24

Leaders Ilham Aliyev, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov convened in Turkmenistan’s Avaza to formalize a three-way platform spanning transport, logistics, shipbuilding, civil aviation, and commodities exchange cooperation. Documents signed include sectoral memorandums and a commitment to coordinated tariff policies, with Tashkent offering mutual reductions to shorten routes to key markets. Tashkent proposed joint exploration and development on the Caspian shelf and expressed interest in operating its own ferries across the Caspian—an unprecedented move for a non-littoral state that could materially expand Uzbekistan’s freight capacity. SOCAR will enter Uzbekistan’s upstream under a new agreement, with Aliyev signaling expectations of a discovery within two years.

"In the next one or two years, we hope to hear the joyful news of a major oil field being discovered in Uzbekistan." - President Ilham Aliyev (qalampir.uz)

The trio backed expansion of the Trans-Caspian Middle Corridor, including upgrades at Turkmenbashi and Baku ports, digitalized procedures, and harmonized controls, positioning an alternative to routes via Russia and Iran. Mirziyoyev urged leveraging new flows from the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway and the planned Trans-Afghan corridor, while exploring green-power export routes to Europe. A joint roadmap and ministerial mechanism will steer implementation.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Regional Tensions and Diplomacy Shift with New Deadlines, Accusations, and a Caspian Summit

Published: 2025-08-24

Former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly set “a few weeks” as a new deadline for Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling continued pressure tactics as war-related negotiations stall. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov issued fresh accusations against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, escalating the rhetorical front. Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko stated that an “Oreshnik” system was not launched toward Kyiv, attempting to distance Minsk from direct involvement. In parallel, the presidents of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan convened a trilateral summit, underscoring growing Caspian connectivity and energy logistics cooperation relevant to East–West trade routes via the Middle Corridor. The meeting suggests potential alignment on transport corridors and energy transit that could shift regional supply chains and balance against Black Sea disruptions.

"We did not launch the ‘Oreshnik’ toward Kyiv" - Alexander Lukashenko (kun.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

Tashkent Closes Section of Shota Rustaveli Street for Reconstruction Through 31 August

Published: 2025-08-24

Tashkent city authorities have temporarily closed Shota Rustaveli Street between its intersections with Cho‘ponota Street (near the “Brotherhood Graves” memorial) and Mirobod Street (Grand Mir Hotel roundabout) from 24 to 31 August for reconstruction. The Transport Department announced rerouting and timing changes for several bus lines using this corridor, warning of potential congestion and longer intervals during works. While detailed detour maps were issued locally, travelers should expect slower transit across the Mirabad district and plan alternatives, especially during peak hours. The closure follows earlier route adjustments on 15 bus lines linked to utility repairs in the area, indicating sustained infrastructure activity affecting central corridors. Businesses and commuters in central Tashkent should monitor official updates for evolving bus schedules and consider flexible travel times until works conclude.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Weighs Ferry Purchases from Turkmenistan to Ease Caspian Bottlenecks

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan is exploring the purchase of ferries from Turkmenistan’s shipyards to accelerate cargo flows across the Caspian Sea along the Trans-Caspian (Middle) Corridor. Transport Minister Ilhom Mahkamov said ties with Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan are strengthening, with a new trilateral memorandum enabling joint logistics companies to streamline freight forwarding, create incentives, and support export, import, and transit operations. The initiative follows growing congestion on Caspian routes, where queues have stretched to 30–40 days. Uzbekistan will analyze technical and financial options for acquiring vessels from Turkmenistan and potentially Azerbaijan, alongside plans for joint ferry production with Azerbaijan, a project estimated at $150 million. The push complements Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to expand access to European markets via Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia.

"We plan to provide services with ferries on the Caspian. Given rising volumes, 30–40-day backlogs have emerged, and ferries will help move Uzbek cargo faster." - Ilhom Mahkamov, Minister of Transport (gazeta.uz)

"We agreed to study and assess the purchase of ships from shipbuilding plants; the memorandum allows us to resolve technical and economic issues more freely." - Ilhom Mahkamov, Minister of Transport (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Backs 15% Hike for Household Heating and Hot Water; Larger Increases for Businesses

Published: 2025-08-24

Tashkent’s city council approved Veolia Energy Tashkent’s proposal to raise tariffs for heating and hot water, pending the mayor’s signature. Household retail rates would rise 15% to 139,860 UZS per Gcal (ex-VAT), following the last increase on November 15. Business tariffs would climb 40% to 342,296 UZS per Gcal; the base tariff increases 7% to 711,641 UZS; and budget organizations face an 18.8% hike to 952,797 UZS per Gcal. The company proposed implementation from October 1, 2025; once signed, changes take effect 15 days later. Officials cited heavy subsidies: residents currently pay only 18% of the base tariff, with the city budget covering losses that now approach 28% of 2025 expenditures. The government intends to phase out subsidies by 2030, moving to full cost recovery within five years.

"We have no other way; if we don’t raise now, we’ll face 40–50% hikes later." - Sevara Pardayeva, CEO, Veolia Energy Tashkent (gazeta.uz)

"The Finance Ministry’s priority is targeting subsidies to eligible families, and we plan to develop this together." - Sevara Pardayeva, CEO, Veolia Energy Tashkent (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Prosecutors Oversee Resolution of Utility and Paperwork Hurdles for New Industrial Projects in Bukhara

Published: 2025-08-24

Regional prosecutors in Bukhara facilitated on-site resolution of utility connections and documentation issues for several small industrial zone projects, signaling closer oversight of investment bottlenecks. “Parvoz Fayz Plus Baraka” LLC refurbished a 2,000 sq m facility with UZS 3.0 billion in own funds and secured UZS 4.5 billion from Aloqabank to purchase equipment, planning to launch within 10 days and create 500 jobs across two shifts. “Karakul Garden Tex” LLC completed equipment delivery for a UZS 4.7 billion fabric expansion, targeting a 10‑day launch and 50 jobs. Additional projects include electrical equipment and aluminum cookware production in Jondor’s “Qaroli” zone. Authorities addressed cadastral formalization and gas supply issues and promoted a “Tadbirkor murojaati” Telegram bot for rapid problem resolution. The moves underscore efforts to de-risk SMEs through administrative support and faster utility access.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Society

Consular Intervention Returns Trafficking Victim to Uzbekistan after Fraudulent Job Offer in Turkey

Published: 2025-08-24

A woman from Samarkand who sought to leave family disputes and was lured by a “high-salary, no-skills-needed” job offer in Istanbul had her passport confiscated and faced forced labor-like conditions after arriving without a work visa, according to Uzbekistan’s Consulate General in Istanbul. The consulate and the Migration Agency’s Turkey office acted on her appeal, coordinating with Turkish law enforcement, and ensured her safe return to Uzbekistan. Authorities have forwarded information about the suspected perpetrator to Turkish police for investigation. The case highlights ongoing risks around unlicensed recruiters and social media scams targeting Uzbek migrants, reinforcing official warnings to verify employment offers, secure proper visas, and use licensed agencies to avoid exploitation.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

State Honors Recognize Living and Posthumous Contributors Across Science, Culture, Media and Health

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan issued two presidential decrees conferring high state awards on dozens of figures across science, education, healthcare, sports, literature, culture, arts, and the media—both living recipients and a separate roster posthumously honored for lifetime contributions. The Independence Day awards list, published by official outlets, spans top religious leaders, artists, writers, educators, journalists, athletes, and healthcare professionals, including titles such as “People’s Artist,” “Honored Journalist,” and orders including Fidokorona xizmatlari uchun, Mehnat shuhrati, Do‘stlik, and others (uza.uz; kun.uz). A parallel decree commemorates late luminaries such as poets Muhammad Yusuf and Rauf Parfi, academician Utkam Aripov, and actor Murad Radjapov for advancing national culture, scholarship, and values (uza.uz). The awards emphasize the state’s prioritization of nation-building through intellectual and cultural development tied to Independence Day commemorations.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Migration Agency Warns Against Suspicious Payments in Job Placement Deals

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency urged individuals to avoid making unverified payments when seeking employment or migration services. The advisory recommends working only with officially registered agencies and carefully reviewing any contract before signing. The guidance comes as authorities continue efforts to curb fraud and protect workers navigating overseas opportunities, where illicit intermediaries and informal brokers remain common. The reminder underscores due diligence: verify agency credentials against official registries, scrutinize contract terms and fees, and flag any demands for upfront or “guarantee” payments outside established procedures. While no new enforcement actions were announced, the message aligns with broader reforms to formalize labor migration channels and strengthen consumer protections in recruitment. No official quotations were provided in the source report.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Five Neighborhood Councils Open New Offices in Surxondaryo’s Sho’rchi and Muzrabot Districts

Published: 2025-08-24

Local authorities in Surxondaryo Region commissioned new offices for “mahalla yettiligi” (seven-member neighborhood councils), with one in Sho’rchi and four in Muzrabot. Sho’rchi now has 49 of its 53 self-governing bodies operating from fully equipped premises, a step officials say improves coordination across social support, crime prevention, employment, and work with women and youth. District governor Akbarali Ishmurzoyev highlighted the system’s role in strengthening community engagement following recent reforms.

"With the introduction of the ‘mahalla yettiligi’ system, tasks have expanded, coordination has improved, and conditions for close dialogue with residents have been strengthened." - Akbarali Ishmurzoyev, Sho’rchi district governor (uza.uz)

A new office also opened for Do’stlik mahalla, serving 5,074 residents in 1,075 households.

"We used to work in an adapted facility. Now we have a modern, comfortable and bright building that will boost efficiency and bring us closer to residents." - Alisher Abdurahimov, chair of Do’stlik mahalla (uza.uz)

In Muzrabot, new buildings were launched for Olmazor, Mehnatobod, Mohiyat and Fayziobod mahallas.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

Dusty, Dry Heat Forecast Across Regions with Stronger Easterly Winds Early Week

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan’s weather agency O‘zgidromet projects hot, dry conditions nationwide from 25–28 August, with no precipitation expected. Daytime highs will range from 32–40°C across most regions, peaking in Qashqadaryo and Surxondaryo (up to 40°C). Tashkent is set for 36–38°C with light to moderate easterlies. Stronger easterly winds of 7–12 m/s are expected in many areas, with gusts locally reaching 13–18 m/s; Bukhara, Navoiy, and parts of Tashkent, Sirdaryo, Jizzakh, and Samarqand may see dust storms reducing visibility and air quality. Nighttime lows will vary from 12–17°C in mountainous areas to 18–23°C in southern lowlands. The Ferghana Valley should see slightly milder daytime peaks of 32–37°C. Travel and outdoor operations may be affected by wind and dust in western and central regions, particularly on 25 August.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Farm and Dehqan Operations Double Power Theft via Water Pumps in 40 Days

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan’s energy oversight agency reports a sharp rise in electricity theft linked to irrigation pumps at farm and dehqan enterprises. Authorities identified 246 illegal usage cases so far in 2025, valued at 64.1 billion soums, up from 179 cases totaling 33.5 billion soums reported on July 15. The data indicate nearly a twofold increase during July–August, with 30.6 billion soums’ worth of power diverted in roughly 40 days. The Inspectorate also noted broader misuse: the Prosecutor General’s Office recorded 1,999 instances of wasteful energy consumption nationwide this year, including 124 in Tashkent region. The trend underscores seasonal irrigation pressures, enforcement gaps in metering and connections, and rising fiscal losses for the grid operator as peak summer demand strains supply and payment discipline.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Samarkand Doctors Pilot AI‑Guided, Minimally Invasive Stroke Treatment

Published: 2025-08-24

A multidisciplinary team at a Samarkand clinic led by angiography specialist Farrukh Qilichev performed an AI‑assisted, minimally invasive stroke procedure on a 34‑year‑old patient from Jizzakh, marking a new clinical approach to acute ischemic stroke care in Uzbekistan. Using advanced angiography for high‑resolution imaging, surgeons removed cerebral thrombi via endovascular access, potentially shortening recovery and avoiding prolonged treatment. The patient is in satisfactory condition under observation. The move aligns with a national push to transform healthcare and improve stroke outcomes, as authorities have noted a rise in stroke incidence and called for AI‑enabled protocols at the primary care level. The Samarkand initiative signals early adoption of those directives, with practical integration of AI into imaging and clinical decision‑making to standardize faster, less invasive interventions.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Sports

Sports Officials Explore Manchester City Facilities to Inform National Football Center Plans

Published: 2025-08-24

Leaders from the National Olympic Committee and the Football Association visited Manchester City’s infrastructure to study best practices, discussing how the English club’s experience could be applied to the new National Football Center in Yuqori Chirchiq district. The engagement signals an effort to benchmark training, youth development, and facility management against a top European club. While no formal agreements were announced, the focus appears to be on adopting operational models and technical standards that could elevate domestic training systems and national team preparation. The National Football Center, recently built near Tashkent, is positioned to become a hub for elite development; exposure to Manchester City’s integrated academy, sports science, and operations may shape its programming and governance. No official statements or timelines were disclosed.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Arts

Bukhara to Host First International Contemporary Art Biennale, Turning Heritage Sites into Creative Cluster

Published: 2025-08-24

Uzbekistan will stage its first International Contemporary Art Biennale in Bukhara from September 5 to November 20, 2025, following a presidential resolution setting out measures to deliver the event at a high standard. The inaugural edition, themed “Healing Hearts,” will run for 10 weeks with exhibitions, artist talks, music, culinary showcases, artisan-led workshops, a symposium on art history, and poetry programs. Fourteen heritage sites will be repurposed as an integrated creative cluster blending exhibitions, education, research, and production. Organizers plan more than 70 contemporary projects co-designed with local masters and international artists, and over 60 art objects and installations—some to tour global exhibitions. A documentary will promote the biennale and the country’s tourism potential. The program also includes training to prepare international-level curators and support Uzbekistan’s participation in leading global art platforms.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Parkent Hosts Third International Grape and Winemaking Festival, Targeting Record Tourism

Published: 2025-08-24

Parkent district’s Zarkent village held the third International Grape and Winemaking Festival, underscoring the region’s viticulture heritage and scenic appeal. Organizers projected guests from more than 30 countries and anticipated up to one million local and foreign visitors—nearly double last year’s turnout—highlighting the event’s growing pull as a cultural and tourism driver. The festival’s scale suggests stronger positioning of Tashkent region’s agro-tourism and wine sector branding, with potential spillovers for small producers, hospitality, and regional logistics. Anhor.uz journalists reported from the scene and compiled a video report, indicating heightened media interest and broader outreach to international audiences. While detailed economic figures were not provided, the attendance goal signals expanding ambitions for destination marketing and seasonal tourism flows in Uzbekistan’s emerging wine corridors.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Comments

Related

Latest