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Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: Courts digitized, central bank sets cyber rules, TBC to buy OLX UZ, and China flights expand

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Politics

Tashkent Court Jails Citizen Six Years for Fighting in Ukraine on Russian Side

Published: 2025-08-21

A district court in Bekobod, Tashkent region, sentenced a 39-year-old Uzbek citizen, identified as A.A., to six years in a general-regime colony for “mercenarism” under Criminal Code Article 154. Court documents indicate A.A. traveled to Moscow for construction work in June 2024 and, on February 22, 2025, entered a contract with Russia’s armed forces, receiving brief training before deployment to Luhansk. He argued the contract was coerced by police over an expired work patent and sought leniency, citing family hardship. The court found his coercion claim unproven and noted he received 500,000 rubles in pay. His spouse told the court he had earlier signaled intent to join for financial reasons.

"He said he was doing this for the children’s future and wouldn’t listen to me." - Z.A., defendant’s spouse (gazeta.uz)

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Lawmakers Back Overhaul of Nuclear Governance, Designating Atomic Energy Agency as Lead Regulator

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s lower house approved in first reading amendments to the law on peaceful use of atomic energy, shifting sectoral leadership to the Cabinet’s Atomic Energy Agency and refining state management and oversight to align with international standards. The Agency would draft and coordinate sector programs, set safety measures, and manage international cooperation, while the Energy Ministry retains responsibilities for accounting nuclear energy sources and tracking nuclear power’s share in the electricity balance. The bill outlines 17 priority areas, including reforms to ensure safe operation of nuclear facilities and development of radiation and nuclear safety systems. It also enables projects using nuclear technologies beyond energy, with plans to advance nuclear medicine following earlier announcements of a dedicated center. Deputies voted unanimously; second and third readings will precede Senate review.

"Today, nuclear technologies are effectively used in industry, nuclear medicine, sterilizing agricultural products, and preserving cultural heritage, supporting stable economic development." - Otabek Amanov, Deputy Head of the Directorate for Construction of Uzbekistan’s Nuclear Power Plant (gazeta.uz)

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Economy

TBC Bank Group to Acquire Control of OLX Uzbekistan via JV with Titan Investments

Published: 2025-08-21

TBC Bank Group will acquire a controlling stake (50% +1 share) in OLX Uzbekistan through a new joint venture with Titan Investments, which will hold the remaining shares. The JV will purchase 100% of OLX Uzbekistan from Prosus’s OLX Group, pending regulatory approvals. The deal is among the largest M&A transactions in Uzbekistan in three decades and positions TBC to integrate the country’s most-visited classifieds platform—6th overall by traffic, with 5.4 million monthly active users and 2.2 million live listings—into its digital banking ecosystem of 21 million registered users. The bank aims to leverage cross-platform synergies for customer acquisition and embedded finance, keeping OLX operating under its brand while integrating services over time. TBC previously expanded with BILLZ, signaling a broader diversification strategy.

"Our platforms’ synergy will accelerate the creation of best-in-class digital banking solutions for new users." - Nika Kurdiani, CEO of TBC Uzbekistan (uzdaily.uz)

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Government Sets Procedure for ‘Do-Not-Contract’ Credit Registry Applications

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan approved a regulation detailing how individuals can add or remove themselves from the national registry of persons prohibited from entering credit agreements. Applications may be filed via the unified e-portal (my.gov.uz), Public Service Centers, or directly through credit bureaus. When submitted in person to a credit bureau, applicants receive a certificate with a QR code. Public Service Centers must deliver results to the applicant’s email within 10 minutes of receipt and notify them through the information-communication system. Credit histories will now record the date and time an application to impose or lift a ban was submitted, when it took effect, and the ban’s conditions. The entities handling requests are responsible for data confidentiality. The change follows March amendments granting individuals the right to voluntarily block or unblock credit contracting to prevent unauthorized loans.

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China Partnerships Advance Innovation Hub and Leather-Footwear Manufacturing in Uzbekistan

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan is deepening sectoral ties with Chinese partners across agriculture, tourism, and leather-footwear manufacturing. In Tashkent, the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade discussed creating an “Uzbekistan–China innovation center” focused on modern agriculture and cultural-tourism. The initiative is framed to scale new technologies, spur job creation, and formalize regular project coordination. In parallel, industry talks in Wenzhou with China’s leather association highlighted Andijan’s Oltinko‘l small industrial zone as a strategic base to expand production lines and shift toward higher-value finished goods. Chinese capital and equipment are expected to boost export capacity to China and wider Asian markets, while leveraging Uzbekistan’s raw material base. Officials signal phased implementation and strengthened company-to-company collaboration, positioning the Oltinko‘l hub and the planned innovation center as pillars for technology transfer and long-term industrial integration.

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Presidential Dialogue Unveils Tax Cuts, Export Financing, and Tourism PPPs to Accelerate Private-Sector Growth

Published: 2025-08-21

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev used an open dialogue with entrepreneurs to launch a broad package of pro-business measures spanning tax relief, finance, infrastructure and regulatory reform. Annual turnover up to UZS 1 billion will be taxed at a flat 1% from Jan 1, with VAT transition incentives and narrower profit-tax prepayments freeing liquidity for SMEs. Exporters gain a one-year moratorium on penalties for overdue receivables and access to $200 million pre-export finance in textiles, plus $500 million working-capital support in other sectors. Tourism will expand via 5,000 hectares offered for hotel and resort projects under a state-as-shareholder PPP model, alongside concessional loans. A new investment platform will let firms raise capital from investors as revenue-sharing partners, and a five-year fintech/startup strategy will introduce open banking. Regulatory steps include “15-minute business” onboarding, reduced certifications, and a forthcoming Investment Code.

"Every job and export rests on an entrepreneur’s courage; the state will match that with simpler taxes, finance, and justice." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uza.uz)

"A flat 1% turnover tax and VAT transition relief aim to bring more firms out of the shadow and expand formal employment." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uza.uz)

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Direct Investment Platform to Let Companies Raise Capital Without Adding Investors as Founders

Published: 2025-08-21

"A new investment platform will allow companies to work directly with investors, simplifying capital attraction." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uzdaily.uz)

Uzbekistan will launch a digital platform enabling companies to present projects and receive direct investments without requiring investors to be added as LLC founders—a common barrier under current rules that has left banks bearing most financing. Announced during an August 20 meeting with entrepreneurs, the tool aims to diversify funding channels and reduce reliance on bank lending. Officials expect the platform to help mobilize up to an additional $1 billion annually, signaling a shift toward market-based capital formation and potentially broadening access for both domestic and foreign investors. The initiative could improve deal transparency, streamline due diligence, and expand sectoral investment options as firms showcase projects and investors choose the most attractive opportunities.

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Central Bank Sets Lower Official Rates for USD, EUR, and RUB

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank set new official exchange rates for 22 August, reducing the US dollar by 52.65 soʻm to 12,413.79 soʻm, the euro by 48.9 soʻm to 14,468.27 soʻm, and the Russian ruble by 0.56 soʻm to 154.86 soʻm. The downward adjustments indicate incremental shifts in the soʻm’s valuation against major currencies, relevant for pricing imports, settling contracts, and accounting for foreign-denominated obligations. Businesses and banks typically use the Central Bank’s daily benchmark for official settlements and regulatory reporting, even as market rates can diverge intraday. While the changes are modest, they may affect short-term cash flow planning, procurement costs, and wage payments linked to foreign currency. No additional policy measures were announced alongside the rate update, suggesting routine recalibration rather than a directional intervention.

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Natural Gas Output Hits Eight-Year Low as Exports Rise and Subsidies Extended

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan produced 25.3 bcm of natural gas in January–July 2024, down 884 mcm year-on-year and the lowest for comparable periods in eight years. Output fell 3.4% versus the same span of 2023 (26.2 bcm) and is roughly 10 bcm below levels six years ago. Despite weaker production, gas exports reached $438.6 million in the first seven months—up 38.2%—while imports totaled $734 million, signaling tighter domestic supply and continued reliance on foreign gas. The budget will keep subsidizing household gas tariffs below production cost: 7 trillion soums are allocated for 2025, with plans for 5.9 trillion in 2026, 5.5 trillion in 2027, and 5 trillion in 2028, indicating a longer subsidy horizon than previously suggested. This approach underscores fiscal pressures and potential pricing reforms as authorities balance export revenue, import needs, and consumer affordability.

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Gold Sales Jump 84% in Seven Months as Trade Gap Narrows

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan increased gold exports by 83.7% year over year in January–July, selling nearly $7.7 billion worth of bullion. Total trade reached $44.4 billion, up 19.9%, with exports at $20.1 billion (up 34.9%) and imports at $24.3 billion (up 9.9%). Gold accounted for 37.7% of overall exports, underscoring the metal’s outsized role in hard‑currency earnings. July export revenues were $3.2 billion, including about $1.1 billion from gold sales. On the reserves front, central banks globally bought 22 tons of gold in June; the Central Bank of Uzbekistan led with 9 tons and nearly 18 tons purchased in H1, while domestic output reached 56.7 tons, up 3.8% year over year. The data suggest stronger external balances and continued reliance on gold as both an export driver and reserve asset.

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Uranium Output Target Doubled to 7,200 Tons by 2030 as New Deposits Advance

Published: 2025-08-21

State agency O‘zAtom outlined a sharp scale-up of uranium production, projecting 4,200 tons in 2025 and 7,200 tons by 2030—nearly double within five years. Uzbekistan currently operates 23 uranium mines and is conducting active exploration at 10 additional prospective sites, relying largely on in‑situ leaching, a method viewed as modern and comparatively lower-impact. The country ranks second in the CIS for reserves, 10th globally, and is among the top five producers worldwide. Officials frame the expansion as part of a low‑carbon energy strategy and a bid to reinforce reliability as a civil nuclear fuel partner for international markets. With heightened exploration and output, supply commitments and downstream processing capacity will be in focus for buyers assessing long‑term contracts.

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President Announces New Incentives for Businesses During Open Dialogue

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s president held an open dialogue with entrepreneurs and announced new incentives aimed at easing the business environment, according to kun.uz. While detailed measures were not disclosed in the brief, the move signals continued policy emphasis on private sector development and investment facilitation. The discussion appears part of a broader domestic agenda also highlighting citizen repatriation, specialized hospitals, and enforcement milestones by the Bureau of Compulsory Enforcement (MIB), as suggested by the digest framing. For international companies, the promised incentives may translate into improved operating conditions and potential tax or regulatory relief, with follow-on regulations expected to clarify eligibility and sectors targeted. No direct quotes or specific timelines were provided in the available report, indicating further announcements are likely in subsequent official communications.

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Uzcard Half-Year Profit Jumps 53% as Revenue and Assets Expand

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzcard, the national processing center for card payments, reported net profit of 621.6 billion soums for January–June 2025, up 52.7% year-on-year, on revenues rising 68.7% to 953.3 billion soums. Operating profit increased 59.7% to 636.4 billion soums. The company allocated 300 billion soums to dividends for the half-year, or 6,000.14 soums per share—six times nominal value. Retained earnings reached 730.5 billion soums (up 2.8x), while assets rose 57.9% to 997.3 billion soums. The results underscore the valuation gap since the state sold a 75% stake in 2022 for 210.1 billion soums, when Uzcard’s total value was set at 280 billion soums. For context, peer network Humo posted 124.3 billion soums in H1 net profit, up 73%, with growth accelerating in Q2 following tariff increases.

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NBK 111 Wins 23-Hour E-Auction to Explore Navoiy’s 2.4-Ton Pirali Gold Site

Published: 2025-08-21

An e-auction for geological exploration rights at the gold-rich Pirali site in Navoiy region concluded after 23 hours and 29 minutes with 461 bidding steps, awarding NBK 111 the license for 99.09 billion soums (about $7.9 million), 24 times the 4.12 billion-soum starting price. The 484-hectare site lies 20.5 km northwest of Zafarobod and 38.5 km north of Navoiy city, with estimated reserves of 2.4 tons of gold. NBK 111 was registered in Tashkent in May 2024; it focuses on non-ferrous ore mining and has an authorized capital of 1.005 billion soums. Ownership is split between Chinese citizen Zhang Xian (40%) and Uzbek investor Nurmaxammad Pulatov (60%). This marks the week’s third major sale after Temirchi (67.78 billion soums) and Terekli (81.8 billion soums).

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Top Construction Firms Accumulate Over 1 Trillion Soums in Tax Arrears, Concentrated in Tashkent

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s construction sector has amassed more than 1 trillion soums in unpaid taxes, according to Kun.uz, signaling mounting fiscal risks in a key growth industry. The ten largest companies account for 385 billion soums of the total arrears, highlighting significant noncompliance among market leaders. Regional disparities are pronounced: Tashkent city records the biggest burden at 393.1 billion soums, followed by Andijan (123 billion) and Navoi (82.1 billion). For investors and contractors, the concentration of liabilities in the capital suggests tighter scrutiny and potential enforcement actions where most activity is clustered. The figures also point to cash flow strains within construction, possible delays in government payments, or uneven project financing. Authorities could respond with audits, restructuring plans, or targeted incentives to improve compliance and stabilize sectoral finances. No official statements were cited in the report.

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Private Firm Wins Rights to Explore Terekli Gold Site After 12-Hour E-Auction

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s E-auction platform awarded geological exploration rights for the Terekli gold site in Tashkent region to Toyloq Toza Hudud LLC after a nearly 12-hour bidding session that drew 377 offers. The 65-hectare area, located 9.6 km southeast of Shovg‘oz in Ohangaron district, holds estimated reserves of 2 tons of gold. The winning bid reached 81.79 billion soums, almost 20 times the 4.12 billion soum starting price. Toyloq Toza Hudud, registered in Samarkand in 2021 with authorized capital of 67.8 billion soums, primarily manages and leases multi-story residential properties. The firm is fully owned by Baxtiyor Marupov, who holds stakes in several other enterprises. The transaction follows a 67.7 billion soum sale of the Temirchi gold site in Nurota district, signaling continued momentum in market-based allocation of subsoil exploration rights.

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Seven-Month Inflation Reaches 4% as Price Pressures Persist in Services

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s consumer prices rose 4% from December 2024 to July 2025, according to the Statistics Agency. Over the seven months, food prices edged up 0.6%, non-food goods 3.3%, while services surged 11.7%—highlighting services as the main inflation driver. Year-on-year inflation stood at 8.9% in July, while a Central Bank survey indicated perceived inflation at 13.3%. The country’s long-standing 5% inflation target—set by a 2019 presidential decree—continues to slip. Originally slated for 2023, the deadline has been repeatedly postponed: first to 2024, then 2025 H2, 2026 H2, and most recently to 2027, with the Fiscal Strategy now projecting 2028. For policymakers and investors, the gap between actual, perceived, and targeted inflation underscores persistent price rigidities, especially in services, and signals a prolonged tight-policy horizon.

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GM Honors UzAuto Motors Powertrain for Quality and Supply Performance

Published: 2025-08-21

General Motors recognized UzAuto Motors Powertrain for consistently supporting production and delivering high‑quality engine components to its global supply chain. The award was presented in Tashkent by GM Ramos GPS (Mexico) plant director Oscar Quintanilla to UzAuto Motors Powertrain CEO Saidazim Gulyamov. GM highlighted the plant’s First Time Quality (FTQ) rate above 97.5%, underscoring reliability for global assembly lines, including in Latin America. The company began exporting cylinder blocks for CSS Prime engines in December 2024 and has shipped 19,980 units to date, with an additional 20,736 expected by year‑end—signaling growing integration into GM’s manufacturing network.

"This award is the result of our entire team’s work. We are proud to be part of General Motors’ global production chain and will maintain high quality while deepening our cooperation." - Saidazim Gulyamov, CEO, UzAuto Motors Powertrain (uzdaily.uz)

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Diplomacy

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan and China agreed to raise permitted flights to up to 130 per week following talks during the Central Asia–China (S5+1) civil aviation working group meeting in Astana on August 12–14. The accord also foresees increasing the number of Uzbek carriers authorized to operate to China to eight and widening the list of eligible Chinese destinations for Uzbek airlines. A formal document was signed and is expected to take effect after China completes its internal approvals. Currently, the two countries operate 61 weekly passenger flights and 128 cargo and transit services on core routes including Tashkent–Beijing, Urumqi, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Sanya, served by Uzbekistan Airways, Centrum Air, My Freighter, Qanot Sharq, and major Chinese airlines. The move builds on a June framework that lifted designated carriers per side from three to six and opened additional city pairs in both countries.

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Mirziyoyev to Attend Azerbaijan–Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan Trilateral Summit in Avaza

Published: 2025-08-21

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev will make a working visit to Turkmenistan on 22 August to join a trilateral summit with Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan in the Avaza national tourism zone. The agenda centers on expanding multiparty cooperation—particularly in trade, transport and logistics corridors across the Caspian, energy connectivity, and humanitarian ties—with several joint documents expected. The format underscores growing regional coordination on East–West transit, where aligning customs, rail, port, and energy infrastructure remains pivotal for throughput and diversification. Bilateral meetings are also planned on the sidelines, signaling possible progress on specific projects and implementation timelines. The summit follows earlier high-level contacts in Avaza this month, indicating momentum toward institutionalizing the three-way platform. No detailed communiqués were released ahead of the gathering, but the stated focus suggests deliverables tied to corridor efficiency, power exchanges, and sectoral cooperation.

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Tashkent and Muscat Advance Sector-Wide Cooperation with New Joint Project Push

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s investment chief Laziz Kudratov met senior Omani officials and business leaders in Muscat to advance cooperation across energy, petrochemicals, mining, machinery, agriculture, textiles, food processing, logistics, and tourism. The Uzbek side presented ready-to-launch project proposals and outlined investor protections, tax and customs incentives, industrial zone preferences, and special regimes for strategic projects. Negotiations concluded with agreements to expand collaboration and develop new joint ventures in priority sectors, signaling intent to deepen long-term ties through co-investment, infrastructure development, and trade diversification. Counterparties included Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Qais Al Yousef, Investment Authority President Abdulsalam Al Murshidi, and executives from Suhail Bahwan Group, Sohar International Bank, Oman Cables, Asyad Group, and MB Holding. No specific project values or timelines were disclosed, but both sides committed to structuring follow-on workstreams to operationalize the initiatives.

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Published: 2025-08-21

A new cross-border tourism circuit now connects Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan’s Khorezm and Karakalpakstan regions, and western Kazakhstan, according to Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee. The route is designed for both independent travelers and organized groups, combining logistical ease with a curated cultural and nature-focused program. It spans more than 15 UNESCO-recognized and nationally significant sites, offering access to historic cities, archaeological fortresses, and distinctive landscapes. Highlights include Ancient Merv, Darvaza gas crater, and Kunya-Urgench in Turkmenistan; Ichan-Kala and Dishan-Kala in Khorezm; the I.V. Savitsky Museum and the fortresses of Qizilqala, Chilpiqqala, Toproqqala, and Ayazqala, plus the Sulton Uvays Bobo shrine in Karakalpakstan; and Kazakhstan’s Torysh “Valley of Balls,” Bozzhyra cliffs, Shopak-Ata mausoleum, and Sherkala mountain. The itinerary emphasizes regional culinary traditions, crafts, and visits to sacred sites alongside natural scenery.

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Bahrain’s Alba Discusses Joint Projects and Green Energy Cooperation in Tashkent Talks

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov met Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) CEO Ali Al Baqali in Tashkent to explore industrial cooperation with one of the world’s leading aluminum producers. The discussion centered on strengthening economic ties through joint projects, developing high-tech manufacturing, and advancing green energy integration—priorities that align with Uzbekistan’s push to modernize industry and attract foreign investment. The potential collaboration signals opportunities in downstream aluminum value chains, technology transfer, and joint ventures that could support domestic fabrication and renewable-powered production. The meeting underscores Tashkent’s strategy to partner with established Gulf-based industrial players to accelerate diversification and sustainability goals in metals and advanced manufacturing. No specific agreements or timelines were announced.

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UNESCO’s 43rd Session to Spotlight Samarkand’s Cultural Diplomacy Push

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan will host UNESCO’s 43rd session in Samarkand, positioning the city as a platform for global dialogue on education, science, culture, communication, and tourism. Authorities have accelerated preparations with upgraded airport capacity, new conference venues, enhanced hotel and transport systems, and restoration of historic sites. Programing will showcase national traditions, crafts, gastronomy, and arts. Discussions will prioritize safeguarding tangible and intangible heritage, digitalization of cultural assets, youth education support, and innovation in science policy. The session builds on UNESCO’s prior recognition of historic centers in Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and Shahrisabz, as well as intangible heritage like Navruz, Shashmaqom, Kokpari, and pilaf-making. The event underscores Uzbekistan’s broader cultural reforms and aims to reinforce its profile as an active, open, and initiative-driven actor in international cultural cooperation.

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Pakistan Business Delegation Explores Partnerships at Uzbekistan’s Pharmaceutical Development Agency

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s Pharmaceutical Industry Development Agency hosted a delegation from Pakistan’s Sahiwal Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Association of Industrialists, including representatives from Nutrix Health Care and Ammer Labs. Agency Director Abdulla Azizov presented the Tashkent Pharma Park project and investor incentives, signaling an interest in cross-border manufacturing and regulatory cooperation. Discussions focused on establishing production of biologically active supplements, registration pathways, and market entry strategies—areas where Pakistan’s generics manufacturing experience could align with Uzbekistan’s ambitions to localize pharma output. The parties agreed to maintain information exchange and ongoing dialogue, a step that could lead to joint ventures, technology transfer, and streamlined registration for Pakistani-made products targeting Central Asia through Uzbekistan’s emerging pharma hub.

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Infrastructure

New Tashkent Advances Core Infrastructure with $554m in Private Deals and State Offices Moving In

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s flagship “New Tashkent” city is transitioning from site prep to foundational infrastructure, with underground utility collectors, tunnels, and sub-grade parking under construction across a 6,000-hectare first phase designed for 600,000 residents. The broader plan spans 19,700 hectares and ultimately targets a population of 2 million, based on a master plan by UK firm Cross Works. Authorities report 13 commercial lots auctioned and $554 million in investment contracts signed, with hotels, restaurants, and distinctive commercial buildings expected to bolster tourism. Over 60 state agencies will relocate to new administrative facilities; more than ten are already operating from temporary sites. Water and wastewater systems are being built with foreign partners, including a novel pipeline crossing under the Chirchiq River and a 35,000 m³/day treatment plant planned. The project is forecast to create 160,000 construction jobs and later hundreds of thousands of high-value positions in education, healthcare, IT, and tech parks.

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Sojitz Commits $200M to New Tashkent Airport, Part of $1B Uzbekistan Investment Plan

Published: 2025-08-21

Japan’s Sojitz Corporation plans to invest $1 billion in Uzbekistan, including $200 million for a new international airport in Tashkent. The package also allocates $180 million to a wind power project in Navoi region and $75 million to a multi-specialty international hospital in Samarkand. The airport stake signals growing private-sector participation in Uzbekistan’s transport infrastructure, potentially accelerating capacity expansion and operational upgrades in the capital’s aviation hub. The wind project aligns with the country’s renewables targets, while the Samarkand hospital points to rising demand for advanced healthcare and medical tourism. Details on project timelines, partners, and financing structures were not disclosed, leaving questions on procurement models, concessions, and potential state guarantees. If executed, the portfolio could diversify foreign capital inflows across energy, healthcare, and aviation, reinforcing Japan–Uzbekistan economic ties.

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Local Hydropower Manufacturing Scales Up with Export Plans and Major Project Supply

Published: 2025-08-21

UzHydroPower, a Tashkent-region joint venture with China’s Zhejiang Jinlun Electromechanic, is expanding domestic production of hydropower equipment from 1 kW to 40 MW units, alongside turbines, generators, pump sets, and reservoir steelwork. The plant reports 72% local content, positioning it to replace imports and supply ongoing national projects as Uzbekistan’s installed hydropower capacity grows to 2.3 GW. Pricing undercuts comparable Chinese equipment by 12% and Russian by 27%, with first exports targeted from 2026. The factory operates five workshops with 80+ machines and 255 staff, aiming for 350; workforce development includes mentorship and overseas training. UzHydroPower equipment is already running at about 10 small HPPs in Karakalpakstan and Surkhandarya, and the plant is preparing components for large builds, including the 90 MW Lower Chatkal HPP and the 228 MW Naryn cascade.

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BI Group conducts Uzbekistan’s first public vibrodynamic quake test on residential tower

Published: 2025-08-21

Kazakhstan-based developer BI Group, working with Uzbekistan’s Institute of Seismology and Turin Polytechnic University in Tashkent, completed the country’s first public vibrodynamic test on the BI Sad’O residential complex. A roof-mounted device simulated up to magnitude-8 seismic forces while sensors tracked real-time structural responses; visible interior vibrations were observed as part of the demonstration. The building met national construction norms for an 8-magnitude seismic zone and is built on category II soils. The firm positions open testing as a transparency measure and a pre-commission verification of calculations.

"We don’t just follow standards — we aim to exceed them... This test proves we are ready to stand behind every decision." - Dias Adilkhanov, Board Director, BI Group (daryo.uz)

"Seismic resistance cannot be checked by eye — only precise engineering tests give objective results." - Vakhidkhon Ismoilov, Institute of Seismology representative (daryo.uz)

Following successful tests, BI Group will open reservations on 21 August for the project’s Business-class second phase.

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Society

Targeted Policing Plan Expands AI Surveillance and Community Safety Measures in High-Risk Neighborhoods

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan approved Presidential Decree PQ-253 (18 Aug 2025) to tighten crime prevention in “red” category neighborhoods with targeted, technology-driven measures. Authorities will fully equip high-risk areas with AI-integrated CCTV and raise technical protection coverage to 30% for individuals’ property and 60% for corporate assets by year-end. District police chiefs and prosecutors will be stationed directly in neighborhoods by end-2025, daily overseeing operations. New standards introduce “model safe streets” and “model safe homes,” improved lighting, compliant parking surveillance, and the removal of derelict spaces and illegal stalls. Neighborhood “promoters” will conduct outreach, and households with domestic disputes or at-risk individuals will be monitored at least every three days. The Interior Ministry Academy will launch distance learning and gradually expand intake, with incentives for “One Million Coders” graduates entering digital crime-fighting tracks. The decree took effect 20 Aug 2025.

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Mazar-i-Sharif Dismantles Navoiy Monument, Then Launches Rebuild With Expanded Memorial Plan

Published: 2025-08-21

Afghanistan’s local authorities in Mazar-i-Sharif demolished the remaining elements of the Alisher Navoiy monument complex, prompting Uzbekistan’s Foreign Ministry to seek clarification. Kabul’s response to Tashkent said the site was removed by the city administration without consultation and would be replaced with a more “dignified” complex, including multilingual plaques, a library and a renamed square. Reconstruction has now formally begun, funded from the city budget, with officials targeting completion within a month. The move sparked backlash from ethnic Turkic figures, who framed the demolition as an assault on shared heritage, and calls for UNESCO engagement. For Uzbekistan, the episode tests cultural diplomacy with the Taliban authorities while underscoring sensitivities around transborder historical figures central to Uzbek identity and regional soft power.

"The monument was dismantled by local authorities because the location was not worthy of the great thinker; a more magnificent complex will be built." - Ahror Burhonov, spokesperson, Uzbekistan MFA (qalampir.uz)

"This is an insult not only to Afghans but to Uzbeks and Turkic peoples worldwide." - Marshal Abdulrashid Dostum (qalampir.uz)

"The demolition is a repugnant, anti-culture step that shows hostility to the region’s civilizational heritage." - Rohila Dostum, former senator (qalampir.uz)

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Environment

Comprehensive Water Code Overhauls Governance with Basin Management, Licenses, and New Fees

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan has adopted a new Water Code set to take effect on 31 October 2025, replacing the 1993 law and introducing basin-based governance, 10-year integrated basin plans with triennial reviews, and multi-level Water Resources Councils. The reform adds a national water cadastre, licensing and electronic registries for users, mandatory ecological monitoring, and a novel insurance mechanism for water-related risks. Economic instruments will expand, including usage fees, pollution taxes, compensation schemes, and penalties for overuse or unmetered withdrawals. The Code embeds international principles for fair allocation of transboundary waters via treaties—key as much of the country’s water originates abroad. Implementation risks include bureaucratic complexity, higher costs for farmers and utilities, and the need for large-scale infrastructure upgrades and transparent oversight. The legislation’s impact hinges on funding, modern metering/irrigation, and accountable execution. No direct quotes were provided in the source.

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Parliament Reviews Progress on 2030 Eco-Culture Plan, Expands Research Quotas and Sets KPIs for Agencies

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s lower house reviewed implementation of the 2030 Concept for Raising Environmental Culture, hearing updates from ministries and agencies on education, research, and performance oversight. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation reported 66 ecology-related postgraduate quotas allocated for 2025 and receipt of 99 quota requests for 2026 after a 30% expansion in environmental research admissions and added regional places for women in doctoral programs. The Presidential Agency for Management Efficiency has approved 63 key performance indicators across 31 organizations, covering energy efficiency, savings, and natural resource protection, with monitoring via samaradorlik.uz. Education measures target about 80,000 students in 73 academic lyceums and 598 technical schools; youth and film agencies are developing eco-focused children’s content. Lawmakers called for stronger legal frameworks and deeper state–civil society collaboration to raise environmental literacy.

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Innovation

Courts Restructured with Digital Push, Non-Contentious Cases Shifted to Agencies

Published: 2025-08-21

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev approved a package of judicial reforms introducing a “Digital Court” concept, rerouting non-contentious civil and economic cases to administrative bodies, and reorganizing higher review tiers into five regional inspection courts. Administrative and economic cases will be heard extraterritorially, leveraging nationwide e-proceedings. Judicial appointment terms will be revisited, addressing concerns over tenure stability flagged by international assessments. The plan includes converting the Supreme School of Judges into a Justice Academy, expanding training, and building or overhauling 160+ court facilities by 2030. Digitization measures include mandatory e-filings, remote hearings, AI-assisted case processing, automated minutes, and online payments to cut delays and reduce corruption risks. The government frames these steps as streamlining dispute resolution for citizens and businesses while reinforcing judicial independence and transparency.

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Central Bank Sets Mandatory Cybersecurity Baselines for Commercial Banks, Bans IT Outsourcing

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank approved a regulation establishing minimum information and cybersecurity requirements for commercial banks, effective 20 November. Banks must create dedicated information and cybersecurity units across head offices and branches, adopt internal security policies, and manage cyber-risk frameworks covering error, outage and external threat scenarios. The rules prohibit outsourcing the management and continuous operation of IT infrastructure and security systems, requiring banks to host information assets, protection tools, databases and servers in primary and backup data centers that meet strict confidentiality standards, including protection of bank secrecy and personal data. Backup data centers must be at least 50 km from primary sites. Serious security incidents must be reported immediately to the Central Bank and competent state bodies. Banks’ compliance will be reflected in a Central Bank-maintained rating information system.

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Flag Carrier Denies Data Breach Reports, Launches Internal Review

Published: 2025-08-21

Uzbekistan’s national airline rejected media claims that passenger and employee data had been leaked, stating operations and systems are functioning normally. The carrier said examples circulated online purportedly proving a breach are unreliable and unrelated to its IT systems, suggesting they may have been fabricated or edited. While asserting no confirmed incident of unauthorized access or data compromise, the airline initiated a service audit under existing cybersecurity protocols to reassess and strengthen defenses. For businesses reliant on the airline’s services and for compliance-conscious travelers, the company’s stance aims to contain reputational risk while signaling ongoing vigilance. The episode underscores growing scrutiny of data protection in the region’s transport sector, where alleged leaks can quickly impact customer trust and regulatory attention.

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UNESCO Launches AI Ethics Readiness Study in Tashkent as Uzbekistan Deepens Cooperation

Published: 2025-08-21

UNESCO has opened a study in Tashkent to assess Uzbekistan’s readiness for responsible adoption of artificial intelligence, focusing on ethics, transparency, and alignment with global standards. The initiative, titled “Methodology for Assessing AI Readiness in Uzbekistan,” signals expanding cooperation between UNESCO and national authorities. Oleg Pekos, First Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies, underscored the project’s policy relevance for ethical safeguards and international harmonization.

"This research is crucial for introducing AI in a responsible and transparent way, ensuring ethical standards and alignment with global norms in our country." - Oleg Pekos, First Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies (uza.uz)

The effort precedes UNESCO’s General Conference planned in Samarkand from October 30 to November 13, positioning Uzbekistan to showcase progress on AI governance and potentially shape regional discourse on ethical frameworks and regulatory convergence.

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