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Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: Japan-Uzbekistan launch strategic dialogue, carrier keeps round-trip tickets valid, and EU-backed migrant center opens in Tashkent

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Politics

President Unveils Incentives for Private Education, Healthcare, and Year‑Round Resort Zones

Published: 2025-08-27

"I am ready to provide whatever conditions are needed to turn our country into the region’s high‑tech medical hub." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (gazeta.uz)

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced new support measures to expand private participation in education, healthcare, and tourism. In 80 districts with low preschool coverage, private operators can build kindergartens on public school/yard land via PPPs with 30‑year rent exemptions, half‑cost per‑child subsidies, seven‑year concessional loans up to 5 billion soums at 18%, free land allocation tied to sector use, 1% social tax, and up to three years’ wage compensation for educators. Healthcare plans include border‑area medical clusters (clinics, rehab centers, labs, hotels) backed by a $200 million concessional credit line, with seven‑year loans at 17% and three‑year grace periods. Tourism measures introduce a national program, $150 million for four large year‑round resort zones, expanded capacity for family guesthouses, concessional hotel loans, targeted tourism‑fee relief outside major hubs from 2026, and a Heritage Hotels initiative leveraging PPPs and tax/customs incentives to adapt cultural heritage sites for hospitality.

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Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan will implement a special legal regime for sole proprietors and self-employed individuals through 31 December 2030, according to a local digest by kun.uz. While details are limited, such regimes typically streamline registration and compliance, potentially easing tax and licensing burdens for micro-entrepreneurs and the informal sector. The extended timeframe signals a long-horizon policy aimed at formalization and growth of small-scale businesses, which constitute a significant share of the labor market. For foreign firms engaging local freelancers or sole proprietors, the framework may clarify contracting conditions and reduce administrative friction. Authorities also flagged community infrastructure priorities, including plans for football fields in each mahalla, suggesting parallel investment in social amenities. No official statements or implementing regulations were cited in the report, and further guidance will determine scope, eligibility, and incentives.

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Fund Established to Accelerate Karakalpakstan’s Socio‑Economic Development

Published: 2025-08-27

The president approved a resolution to intensify measures for Karakalpakstan’s socio-economic development, including the creation of a dedicated development fund. The decision signals a structured financing mechanism to channel resources into regional priorities such as infrastructure, employment, and public services in the autonomous republic. While detailed funding volumes, governance, and project pipelines were not disclosed, the initiative aligns with broader regional equalization efforts and could attract co-financing from international partners once frameworks are clarified. The move also suggests a more centralized coordination of development programs in Karakalpakstan, potentially improving project execution and monitoring. Companies operating in the region should watch for new tenders and public-private partnership opportunities as the fund’s mandate and operational guidelines are published.

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Economy

China’s Shandong Huada to Invest $500 Million in Andijan Logistics Park Linking New Regional Corridors

Published: 2025-08-27

China Shandong Huada Group plans to invest $500 million to develop rail and road logistics infrastructure in Uzbekistan’s Andijan region, according to the regional administration. The project, agreed during talks between Andijan governor Shuhratbek Abdurahmonov and company investors, targets logistics hubs in Qo‘rg‘ontepa and Xo‘jaobod districts. The facilities are designed to serve an emerging corridor that includes a railway originating in Lhasa, the under-construction China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan line via Xinjiang, and Uzbekistan’s high-speed highway network from Andijan to Tashkent and Samarkand. Officials and investors inspected proposed sites after the meeting. If realized, the investment would position Andijan as a pivotal gateway for Sino-Central Asian trade flows, improve multimodal connectivity, and potentially reduce transit times and costs for cargo moving between western China and Uzbekistan’s industrial centers.

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CalCity Industrial Park Signs MoU to Develop Fiber Crops, Cellulose and Textile Projects

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade and CalCity Industrial Park signed a memorandum of understanding to fast-track projects in fiber crop cultivation and processing, cellulose production, fire-resistant blocks, and textiles. The discussions, led by Deputy Minister Akram Aliyev and CalCity director S. Kyurkchu, highlighted a proposed line to produce cellulose from cotton and grain straw—an area of particular interest due to potential import substitution and value-added use of agricultural residues. The MoU provides a framework to accelerate implementation and explore additional cooperation avenues. While financial terms and timelines were not disclosed, the focus suggests downstream industrialization and potential export-oriented capacity in building materials and textiles, aligned with Uzbekistan’s push to deepen agri-processing and reduce raw material exports.

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Textile Production Scales Up for Global Brands with New Lines and Export Push

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan is accelerating integration into global fashion supply chains, with 66 factories now supplying leading brands such as LC Waikiki, Terranova, Defacto, and Inditex, according to the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade (MIIT). Local producers have partnered with over 80 international labels in the past three years, including The North Face, Engelbert Strauss, Disney, and Kiabi. Annual capacity exceeds 850,000 tons, and in 2024 brand-linked firms produced 273,000 tons worth 12.9 trillion soums, exporting 40,100 tons ($435.4 million), or 42% of output. MIIT plans 20 additional production lines in 2025, adding 33 million garments, 600,000 sq m of decorative fabrics, and 25,000 tons of knit fabric, alongside $73 million in exports, $84 million in FDI, and 4,200 jobs. Specialists flag technology upgrades, environmental standards, and global demand volatility as key constraints.

"If production momentum holds, the country can soon become a vital and reliable link in the global fashion industry’s supply chain." - Timur Bazarov, MIIT department head (gazeta.uz)

"Expand ready-made apparel exports to the EU and U.S., develop cooperation plans with major brands, and open Uzbek trade houses in St. Louis and New York." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, directive cited from an August 13 meeting (gazeta.uz)

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Central Bank Sets New Rates as Dollar Rises to 12,412.98 UZS

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank updated official exchange rates for August 28, setting the U.S. dollar at 12,412.98 UZS, up 58.33 soums. The euro advanced by 2.12 soums to 14,386.64 UZS, while the Russian ruble edged up 0.35 soums to 154.28 UZS. The recalibration reflects routine adjustments based on market dynamics and will guide pricing for customs, accounting, and certain regulated payments. A stronger dollar may increase local-currency costs for imports and foreign-currency debt servicing, while modest euro and ruble movements suggest limited near-term impact on European and Russian trade settlements. Businesses with dollar-linked contracts should review hedging and cash-flow plans as the official rate informs many public and corporate transactions.

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AI-92 Gasoline Prices Climb Up to 7.6% Since Mid-July, AI-80 Also Rises

Published: 2025-08-27

Retail prices for AI-92 gasoline have risen notably across fuel stations in recent weeks, increasing by as much as 7.6% since mid-July, according to kun.uz. AI-80 prices also moved higher. The uptick follows earlier claims that AI-92 would become cheaper, signaling renewed volatility in motor fuel costs. For consumers and businesses, this raises short-term operating expenses and could feed into higher transport and logistics costs. While no official explanation was cited, price moves may reflect supply constraints or adjustments in wholesale pricing. Monitoring fuel market dynamics will be important for cost planning in Q3, particularly for fleets, distributors, and service providers reliant on gasoline. No official statements or policy announcements were included in the report, and no timeframe for potential stabilization was given.

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Economy Projected to Exceed $130 Billion in 2025 as Investment and Services Drive Growth

Published: 2025-08-27

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said GDP is expected to surpass $130 billion by end-2025, citing IMF projections and eight years of accelerated growth from $115 billion. He linked momentum to expanded private enterprise support, industrial buildout, a shift to green and innovation-led sectors, and growth in IT, tourism, and fintech. Industrial output reportedly reached $62 billion, construction volumes hit $23 billion in 2024, and private builders now exceed 30,000 companies. Authorities say $155 billion in investment launched over 100,000 projects, supporting incomes for more than 7 million people. Social spending increased sixfold versus prior years, expanding preschool places to 2.5 million, adding 466 schools, and lifting higher-education coverage to 40%. Tourism exports now top $3 billion and IT exports have accelerated, underpinned by new skills and jobs.

"According to the IMF forecast, our economy is expected to exceed $130 billion this year." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (gazeta.uz)

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UzAuto Motors’ H1 Profit Drops 27.5% as Market Share Slips and Revenue Contracts

Published: 2025-08-27

UzAuto Motors reported net profit of 1.4 trillion soums for the first half of 2025, down 27.5% year-on-year, as revenue fell 9.5% to 21.2 trillion soums and gross profit declined 22.8% to 3.4 trillion. The contraction was concentrated in Q1, when profit halved to 0.64 trillion soums; Q2 rebounded 21% to 749.6 billion soums. Sales profitability eased to 6.5% from 8.2%. The cost of goods sold decreased 6.4% to 17.8 trillion soums. Debt composition shifted, with long-term bank loans dropping to 810.2 billion soums and short-term loans rising to 1.1 trillion soums. Market share eroded as Chevrolet’s share fell from 90.2% to 82.2% (Jan–May), with yearly unit sales down from 142,891 to 111,830. Competitors expanded: ADM Jizzakh reached 11.4% share (Kia +56.4%), while BYD’s share rose to 5.8%. The company unveiled a new Chevrolet Tahoe, priced at 1.4645 billion soums, with sales starting September 11.

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New Regulation Clears Path for Local-Currency Bonds by International Financial Institutions

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan approved a regulation enabling international financial institutions (IFIs) to issue and register bonds denominated in the national currency, following an order by the director of the capital markets regulator (ILMA). The move introduces a formal framework for som-denominated issuance by IFIs, a step that could deepen the domestic debt market, diversify funding sources, and provide local investors with high-grade instruments. It may also reduce currency risk for Uzbek borrowers and investors who typically rely on foreign-currency debt. While the directive signals regulatory readiness, details on issuance pipelines, eligible IFIs, and listing venues were not disclosed. Market participants will watch for guidance on disclosure standards, settlement infrastructure, and tax treatment to assess liquidity prospects and investor appetite. No official statements or timelines were provided in the report.

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Fergana Region Seals Partnership with Tianjin New Building Materials Association to Boost Manufacturing and Exports

Published: 2025-08-27

A Fergana regional delegation led by Deputy Governor Nuriddin Mamajonov concluded a visit to China with agreements to expand industrial cooperation and exports. In Tianjin, the team held a roundtable and B2B meetings with nearly 30 companies, presenting Fergana’s trade and investment potential. The sides reached understandings to launch modern building materials production in Fergana and to develop export channels for agricultural and food products to China. The visit culminated in a cooperation agreement with the Tianjin New Building Materials Association, signaling prospective technology transfer, supplier matchmaking, and market access. For foreign firms, the move indicates provincial-level facilitation of joint ventures in construction materials and agrifood supply chains, potentially unlocking localized manufacturing, logistics links, and participation in China–Central Asia value networks.

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Calcium Hydroxide Plant Breaks Ground in Forish with $45 Million Investment

Published: 2025-08-27

A new calcium hydroxide plant is under construction in the Egizbuloq neighborhood of Forish district, Jizzakh region, led by Zomin Kafel Invest in partnership with a Chinese firm. The $45 million project includes $30 million in foreign investment and will import Chinese technology. Once operational by December 2026, the facility is designed to produce 300,000 tons annually, create 110 permanent jobs, and generate products valued at roughly 600 billion soums per year. Calcium hydroxide is widely used in construction, agriculture, industrial processes, medicine, and sanitation, positioning the project to replace imports and expand export capacity. The development is expected to elevate the district’s industrial output and contribute to the region’s manufacturing base, aligning with Uzbekistan’s push to deepen industrial value chains and attract foreign capital.

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New Business Registrations Rise 1.6% as Tashkent Leads Regional Growth

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan registered 51,159 new companies and organizations (excluding farms and household plots) in January–July 2025, up 1.6% year-on-year, according to official data reported by O‘zA. Tashkent city accounted for the largest share with 11,175 registrations, followed by Tashkent region (5,005), Khorezm (4,640), Fergana (4,288), and Samarkand (3,809). Mid-tier volumes were recorded in Kashkadarya (3,211), Surkhandarya (2,999), Bukhara (2,880), Andijan (2,689), and Namangan (2,626). Lower totals were seen in Karakalpakstan (2,370), Jizzakh (2,193), Navoi (2,006), and Syrdarya (1,268). The figures suggest sustained entrepreneurship concentrated in the capital and populous industrial regions, while smaller provinces continue to lag. For investors, the distribution highlights market depth in the Tashkent corridor and steady expansion across the Ferghana Valley and key regional centers.

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Diplomacy

Tokyo and Tashkent Launch First Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue as Japan’s Top Diplomat Visits Uzbekistan

Published: 2025-08-27

Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Ivaya paid an official visit to Uzbekistan, meeting President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and co-chairing the inaugural Strategic Dialogue at foreign-minister level in Tashkent. The sides highlighted rising trade, major Japanese-backed investment projects, and cooperation opportunities in chemicals, energy, IT, transport, mining, and green power. They agreed to deepen political dialogue and advance concrete initiatives across trade, investment, finance-technical assistance, and cultural-educational ties, including expanding the Uzbekistan–Japan Center and exploring a joint university with leading Japanese institutions. The visit followed Uzbekistan’s National Day at Expo 2025 Osaka and included discussions on the upcoming “Central Asia + Japan” summit.

"Today we held the first strategic meeting at foreign minister level... IT, transport, mining, and green energy remain attractive areas for future cooperation." - Foreign Minister Baxtiyor Saidov (uzdaily.uz)

"Japan fully supports Uzbekistan’s efforts to advance economic and social reforms and will provide comprehensive assistance, including in infrastructure and human resources development." - Foreign Minister Takeshi Ivaya (uzdaily.uz)

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Published: 2025-08-27

The EU, Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency and ICMPD opened the country’s first Migrant Resource Center (MRC) in Tashkent, expanding a regional network aimed at safe and legal migration. The center will provide pre-departure counseling on legal pathways, rights, and risks abroad, run awareness campaigns on irregular migration and human trafficking, and support returnees’ social and economic reintegration. Organizers say the MRC will partner with local institutions and media to extend outreach nationwide and align services with international standards as more Uzbek citizens seek work in Europe.

"Such centers play a decisive role in equipping people with the information needed to make informed decisions on migration." - EU Ambassador to Uzbekistan Toivo Klaar (uzdaily.uz)

"We want every person who crosses the center’s threshold to feel they are not alone and have a reliable partner nearby." - Violeta Wagner, ICMPD Manager (gazeta.uz)

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Japan’s Foreign Minister Explores Industrial and Cultural Ties in Samarkand and Tashkent

Published: 2025-08-27

Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Ivaya visited Samarkand and Tashkent, signaling momentum in Japan–Uzbekistan regional cooperation. In Samarkand, Ivaya toured the SamAvto plant, where ISUZU Motors and Itochu-backed production of buses, trucks, and specialty vehicles serves domestic and export markets—a snapshot of Japan’s longstanding industrial footprint since 2007. He reviewed JICA-supported apple cultivation initiatives at “Bobur agro innovatsiya,” highlighting technology transfer aimed at higher yields and quality. Ivaya also laid flowers at the mausoleum of Islam Karimov, underscoring diplomatic continuity. Meetings with Uzbekistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Bobur Usmonov and Samarkand officials focused on expanding links in economy, culture, and tourism. In Tashkent, Ivaya visited the Yakkasaroy Japanese cemetery and a WWII-era memorial museum before talks with Foreign Minister Baxtiyor Saidov, positioning the trip to advance sectoral cooperation and investment.

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China’s Construction Minister Leads Delegation to Explore Urban Projects in Tashkent and Samarkand

Published: 2025-08-27

China’s Minister of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Ni Hong, arrived in Uzbekistan for an official visit, signaling momentum in bilateral cooperation on construction, urban planning, and municipal services. The delegation was received by Ozoda Jo‘rayeva, Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing-Communal Services. Ni’s program includes site visits to flagship construction sites and modern infrastructure projects in Tashkent and Samarkand, underscoring Beijing’s growing role in Uzbekistan’s urban development agenda. The trip is expected to pave the way for expanded project pipelines, technology transfer, and potential financing in urban infrastructure, aligning with Uzbekistan’s modernization drive and China’s regional engagement. No specific project agreements or figures were disclosed, but the visit positions both sides to deepen sectoral ties and coordinate on future initiatives across housing, utilities, and city planning.

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Baku Study Visit Advances Food Safety Cooperation and Trade Facilitation

Published: 2025-08-27

An interagency delegation from Uzbekistan visited Azerbaijan on 25–28 August to study modern food safety governance, supported by FAO. Hosted by Azerbaijan’s Food Safety Agency (AFSA), the program covered risk-based inspections, crisis management and rapid alert systems, HACCP implementation, import/export requirements, registration of new products and additives, pesticide and veterinary drug controls, and the AQTIS digital platform. Site visits to border checkpoints and labs showcased a “single window” model for trade controls. The itinerary included the Azerbaijan Food Safety Institute (AFSI). Senior Uzbek officials from health, agriculture, veterinary, plant quarantine, customs, audit, and strategic reform bodies participated. The visit is intended to support institutional reform, laboratory strengthening, and stakeholder engagement in Uzbekistan, with potential to enhance consumer protection, ensure safer products, and raise export competitiveness.

"In recent years, relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have steadily developed through reciprocal visits, signed agreements, and joint initiatives." - Zakiya Mustafayeva, AFSA Deputy Chair (uzdaily.uz)

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Infrastructure

Round-Trip Tickets Kept Valid on Domestic Flights as Carrier Ends Automatic Cancellation

Published: 2025-08-27

National flag carrier Uzbekistan Airways will no longer void the return leg of round-trip tickets on domestic routes if passengers miss the first segment. The change follows guidance from the Competition Committee and departs from a widespread industry rule previously embedded in the airline’s 2011 passenger regulations. Travelers who notify the airline or agent in advance can seek refunds or reissue under fare rules; even without notice, the return segment remains valid without reissue. However, the unused first leg incurs a 100% fare penalty, while airport and carrier fees for the missed segment are refundable or can be reissued. The move strengthens consumer protections and aligns with Uzbekistan’s policy emphasis on fair competition, potentially improving travel flexibility for residents who reach their destination by other means before flying back.

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Road Fees Cut for Foreign Heavy Trucks, With New Per‑Kilometer Tariffs Tied to Excess Weight

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan has reduced fees for foreign heavy and oversized trucks transiting the country, revising tariffs to a per‑kilometer system indexed to how much a vehicle exceeds permitted weight. Under a Cabinet resolution dated 26 August 2025, charges now scale from 0.08% of the base calculation unit (BHM) per km for 0–5 tons over the limit to 4.22% per km for more than 50 tons over. In parallel, application review, route approval, and permit issuance fees are recalibrated in the “License” automated system at 54% of BHM for the first 100 km and 0.24% per additional km, replacing the previous flat dollar rates of $25 for up to 100 km and $0.11 per extra km. The shift from USD to BHM pegs costs to domestic benchmarks, providing predictability as BHM is periodically adjusted by the government. No official quotes were provided in the cited reports.

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National Carrier Adds September Flights from Tashkent to Five Regional Hubs

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan Airways will increase domestic frequencies in September from Tashkent to Termiz, Bukhara, Fergana, Navoi, and Namangan, operating additional services with Airbus A320 aircraft, according to the airline’s press office. Tickets are available via booking.uzairways.com, the mobile app, the Uzbekistan Airways Sales network, and authorized agents. The carrier says the move is intended to expand mobility options and meet rising intercity passenger demand. The schedule details were not disclosed in the reports. The expansion comes as domestic aviation adjusts schedules for maintenance: Silk Avia previously announced timetable changes on select routes from September 1 to October 24, 2025, citing technical service and repair needs. The added A320 capacity on core regional links suggests stronger intra-country connectivity ahead of autumn travel and may ease pressure from maintenance-related adjustments by other operators.

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QR-Coded Construction Passports Made Mandatory Following Justice Ministry Registration

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan has formalized a new regime requiring QR-coded passports at construction sites after the Justice Ministry registered the regulation on 26 August (Reg. No. 3672). Developers must install the QR passport at the site entrance or another highly visible location on the same day the project is registered with the territorial construction inspection, and maintain it until commissioning. The sign must be made of moisture- and weather-resistant material, measure 2400×1200 mm, and be mounted at least 1 meter above ground. Upon registration, a QR code is automatically generated in the “Shaffof qurilish” (Transparent Construction) information system, linking to initial project data. The move standardizes public disclosure at sites and enables real-time verification and oversight by authorities and the public.

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New Tashkent-East Airport Completed with Business Aviation Hub and ICAO III-A Capabilities

Published: 2025-08-27

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev inspected the newly completed airport built on the Tashkent-East aerodrome, a project launched in 2017 and finished after pandemic-related delays. The 561-hectare complex features a refurbished 4-km runway, three taxiways capable of handling the heaviest aircraft, a 20-stand apron, hangars for Boeing 787s, A320s, business jets and helicopters, and new VIP and CIP terminals. ICAO Category III-A navigation and meteorology systems will enable operations in poor weather. Authorities expect the site’s location to make it a key transport node for Tashkent and New Tashkent, easing pressure on the main international airport and supporting investment, services growth, and jobs.

"We have built such an airport after many years of preparation... This will ease the load on Tashkent International Airport, and, God willing, we plan a large new complex for that airport as well." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uzdaily.uz)

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Society

Migration Agency Overhauls Korea Placement Staff after Corruption Probe; Says No E‑9 Selections Held

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency replaced all personnel involved in sending workers to South Korea—including its Seoul mission—after security services detained two agency specialists for allegedly taking bribes to arrange jobs. Investigators say more than 80 people paid over US$700,000 in 2024, with one regional specialist arrested while receiving US$41,000 and a central staffer detained after taking US$15,000. The agency stressed that since its reorganization under the Cabinet of Ministers in October 2024, no selections have been conducted for South Korea’s E‑9 visa, countering claims of ongoing official channels. It condemned the abuses and urged reports to its compliance hotline.

"The staff responsible for sending citizens to South Korea, including those at the Seoul representative office, have been fully replaced." - Migration Agency statement (gazeta.uz)

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Tashkent Schedules Citywide Independence Day Fairs and Concerts for 30–31 August

Published: 2025-08-27

Tashkent will host large-scale Independence Day festivities across all districts on 30–31 August, featuring daytime and evening programs. Events begin at noon at Uzekspomarkaz in Yunusobod, then expand from 18:00 in Bektemir (Coca Cola Garden), Mirobod (Furqat Park), Sergeli (central boulevard), Olmazor (River Park), Uchtepa (ECO SEUL Park), Chilonzor (Dream Park/G‘afur G‘ulom Park), Shayxontohur (Navro‘z Park) and Yangihayot (Yangi Darxon MFY, blocks 45–46). From 19:00, concerts start in Mirzo Ulug‘bek (Central Park), Yashnobod (Ashxobod Park) and Yakkasaroy (Do‘stlik Park). Programming includes live concerts, thematic shows and entertainment venues, with the city noting adherence to safety requirements.

"We invite all residents and guests to join the festivities and enjoy the holiday spirit; such events bring people together" - Tashkent City Hall press service (uzdaily.uz)

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Environment

Digital Overhaul Planned for Water Management and Irrigation, 2025–2028

Published: 2025-08-27

A presidential decision has approved a 2025–2028 program to modernize water resource management and the irrigation sector by shifting to digital systems, according to kun.uz. The plan signals a multi-year push to enhance monitoring, allocation, and efficiency in a country where agriculture relies heavily on irrigation and climate variability is intensifying water stress. While specific tools and funding details were not disclosed, a digital backbone could enable real-time metering, reduce losses in canals and distribution, and improve planning for farms and industry. International partners may find opportunities in SCADA systems, geospatial analytics, and remote sensing. Local authorities are expected to implement the roadmap through phased deployments, with sector reforms likely touching governance, data standards, and workforce training to support long-term water security.

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High-Pressure Gas Leak at Muynoq Field Brought Under Control After One Month

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekneftgaz reported that a high‑pressure gas outflow at the Muynoq field in Muynoq district, Karakalpakstan, has been contained roughly one month after it began on 26 July. A round‑the‑clock emergency headquarters coordinated the response, involving the militarized unit for open well control, the Emergency Situations Ministry, regional authorities, and local specialists. A rapid “roadmap” guided phased operations that restored control of Well No. 1—Muynoq’s first drilling well—without injuries or damage, according to the company. The leak originated at 4,707 meters during drilling toward a 5,000‑meter target depth. Uzbekneftgaz said all measures were completed with local expertise and special equipment, and 200 workers received commendations. The incident follows a 2023 hydrogen sulfide leak at the “Mustaqillikning 25 yilligi” field in Surkhandaryo, where four people died and 11 were injured, underscoring ongoing operational and safety risks in deep drilling.

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Innovation

Digital Mechanism Approved to Regulate Investment Activities Using ICT

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan has adopted a presidential decision establishing a mechanism to regulate investment activities conducted through modern information and communication technologies, according to kun.uz. While the decree’s text was not detailed in the report, such measures typically set legal and procedural frameworks for digital platforms used in investment, clarify oversight, and define responsibilities for state bodies and private operators. This move signals a push to formalize fintech-enabled investment channels, potentially streamlining approvals, enhancing transparency, and improving investor protections. International stakeholders can expect follow-on regulations specifying licensing, data governance, and compliance requirements for digital investment services. The decision also suggests forthcoming integration of e-government systems with investment workflows, which may reduce administrative friction and accelerate project implementation once implementing rules are published.

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Tashkent, Chinese E-Commerce Chamber Discuss Deeper ICT and Digital Economy Cooperation

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies Jamol Maxsudov met a delegation led by Wang Ning, president of China’s Electronic Commerce Chamber of Commerce (CECC), to explore collaboration across ICT, e-commerce, and the broader digital economy. Officials presented the country’s IT Park strategy and projects run by UZINFOCOM, including e‑government systems management, highlighting efforts to expand the local IT ecosystem. The Chinese side positively assessed ongoing digital reforms and signaled readiness for joint initiatives in e‑commerce and innovation. The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to identify concrete joint projects and mechanisms to strengthen institutional ties. The engagement underscores Tashkent’s push to attract Chinese know-how and investment into digital infrastructure and services, potentially accelerating platform development, cross-border e‑trade facilitation, and public-sector digitalization.

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Voucher-Based Training Program Approved to Upskill Unemployed in Low-Income Families

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan’s Cabinet of Ministers has approved a resolution introducing a voucher-based system to provide free vocational and foreign-language training through both state and non-state education providers. The measure targets unemployed members of low-income families, aiming to improve employability and align skills with labor market needs. The policy formalizes public financing of training via vouchers, expanding provider participation and potentially accelerating workforce integration, especially in sectors facing shortages. While operational details—such as eligibility, voucher value, and provider accreditation—were not specified in the brief announcement, the framework signals a move toward demand-driven training and broader access to language competencies critical for migration and international business. The involvement of private institutions may increase capacity and specialization, supporting labor mobility and productivity gains across the economy.

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No New Schools Opened in Tashkent in H1 2025 as Classroom Shortages Loom

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan faces a potential shortfall of nearly 2 million school seats in the new academic year, according to local reporting. During the first half of 2025, nine regions, including the capital Tashkent, did not commission any new schools, highlighting capacity constraints in fast-growing urban areas. The absence of new facilities in Tashkent—where population pressures and internal migration are acute—signals mounting strain on class sizes, double-shift schedules, and education quality. For investors and operators in private education and construction, the gap suggests expanding demand for school infrastructure, public-private partnerships, and modular or temporary classrooms. Authorities are likely to prioritize accelerated construction pipelines and refurbishment of existing buildings to mitigate the shortfall, while urban districts could see rezoning and new land allocations for education projects.

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Health

Tashkent Sting Uncovers Counterfeit Drug Operation Supplying Pharmacies

Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan’s State Security Service and the Department for Combating Economic Crimes dismantled an illicit production line in Tashkent that allegedly manufactured counterfeit medicines and routed them to city pharmacies. Investigators seized 11 pill-making machines, 21 molds, and 389 kg of powders and tablets across two sites registered to a dietary supplements company, along with packaging, inserts, and empty capsules. Expert review by the Center for the Safety of Pharmaceutical Products determined fake versions of Ursosan 250 mg, Neyromidin 20 mg, and Fanigan were produced. A linked pharmacy was searched, yielding 1,067 boxes of counterfeit drugs and 274 boxes past expiration, including Fanigan, Azimak, and Siprolet. Three organizers face charges under Criminal Code Article 186-3, part 2(b),(g), which covers producing and distributing substandard or falsified medicines. The case underscores rising enforcement against pharmaceutical fraud and potential supply-chain vulnerabilities affecting retail pharmacies.

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Published: 2025-08-27

Uzbekistan’s and Austria’s academies of sciences held their first joint symposium, assembling leading researchers, medical centers, universities, and industry to map cooperative priorities in biomedicine. Sessions covered genomics, immunology, regenerative medicine, AI-enabled diagnostics, vaccine development post-COVID-19, climate and urbanization impacts on allergies, and risk markers for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Austrian scientist Georg Stingl presented new approaches for autoimmune therapies, while Uzbek Academy member Ravshan Sabirov outlined findings on VSOR/VRAC ion channels in thymocyte size regulation, with implications for immune system development. Working groups were endorsed to pursue joint research themes, international grant financing, doctoral and postdoctoral exchanges, and masterclasses.

"This prestigious symposium opens a new page in our academies’ history, laying foundations for joint projects, young researcher exchanges, and innovation platforms while elevating Uzbekistan’s standing in global science." - Shahlo Turdiqulova, Vice President, Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences (uza.uz)

Organizers said symposium outputs and a roadmap will be reviewed shortly by both academies’ responsible units.

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