Skip to content
Sign In Subscribe
Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: Jobs and remittances rise, Tashkent–Ashgabat flights planned, and 21 held in ISIS probe

,   and  Lexica
24 min read

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Arts

Politics

Anti-Corruption Agency Flags Tender Irregularities; Airport Operator Voids Body-Camera Contract

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s Anti-Corruption Agency found legal violations in a state procurement conducted by “Uzbekistan Airports” for body-camera supply, installation, and commissioning, initially valued at 6.8 billion soums. The review cited non‑objective evaluation of bids, participation of affiliated entities, and errors in scoring, prompting procurement protocols to be annulled and materials forwarded to law enforcement. The airport operator countered that all stages complied with procurement rules, adding that the final contract value was 4.3 billion soums with the lowest-price method on the e-tender platform, and that affiliation became apparent only after completion. The company said it canceled the results in line with the Agency’s binding submission, indicating possible further legal steps pending law enforcement review. No arrests or penalties have been announced as of publication.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Compliance Training Scales Up as Agencies Shift to Preventive Anti-Corruption Measures

Published: 2025-08-23

Nearly 500 officials from state bodies, organizations, and internal compliance units completed a two-day intensive seminar focused on detecting and reducing corruption risks and strengthening internal controls. Organized by the Anti-Corruption Agency with the EU Delegation and UNDP, the program advances reforms that pivot from punitive actions to prevention and early detection, aligning with tasks set by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in March 2025. The curriculum covered analysis of key decisions and regulations, hands-on work with the E-anticor.uz platform and its new module, and a review of errors from the 2025 rating assessments. European experts led practical sessions on managing conflicts of interest and benchmarking resilience to corruption risks. Presentations by ministries, the Prosecutor General’s Office, the Justice Ministry, and the “Ijtimoiy Fikr” center informed proposals to cut bureaucracy and scale compliance systems under the EU-funded UNDP project.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Suspects Detained Over Attempted $4 Million Land Sale

Published: 2025-08-23

Security officers detained individuals in Tashkent who allegedly attempted to sell 50 sotix (0.5 hectares) of land for $4 million. The State Security Service (DXX) and the Department for Combating Economic Crimes conducted a joint operation, arresting the suspects as they received $200,000 in cash, which was seized as material evidence. The case underscores heightened scrutiny of illicit land transactions amid ongoing land market reforms and tighter controls on property rights in Uzbekistan. Authorities did not disclose the identities of the suspects or the exact location of the land plot. Further legal proceedings are expected, with investigators likely to examine potential fraud, bribery, or illegal mediation in land allocation. No official statements from named officials were provided in the initial report.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Farm Enterprise Probed for Tampering Meter to Illegally Use Power Worth 3.26 Billion So’m

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s O‘zenergoinspeksiya reported that a farm enterprise allegedly altered the wiring scheme of an electric meter on its irrigation pump, enabling unauthorized electricity consumption. Preliminary calculations estimate losses to the power supplier at 3.256 billion so’m (approximately USD 256,000, depending on exchange rates). Law enforcement has launched a pre-investigation review, indicating potential administrative or criminal liability under energy theft and property damage provisions. The case underscores heightened scrutiny of agricultural electricity use, particularly for energy-intensive water pumping during the irrigation season, and signals tighter enforcement of metering integrity. Authorities did not disclose the farm’s name or location, and no arrests were reported at this stage. Further findings could lead to recovery claims, fines, or disconnection, with wider implications for compliance across agro-industrial consumers.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

New Justice Academy Established to Overhaul Judicial Training and Standards

Published: 2025-08-23

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has ordered the creation of the Justice Academy to replace the Higher School of Judges, centralizing training for judicial candidates, sitting judges, and court staff under the Supreme Judicial Council. The state-funded institution, supplemented by tuition, grants, and international partnerships, will be led by a rector appointed by the president. From October 1, 2025, six‑month retraining courses for judicial candidates will be introduced, while mandatory continuing education will follow a tiered schedule based on tenure; underperforming judges face additional training. Curriculum design emphasizes a “theory‑practice‑simulation” model, including a “Virtual Court,” AI and IT competencies, ethics, and anti‑corruption mechanisms. Leadership-track candidates must complete a two‑month course. Facilities will be upgraded by end‑2025, with a one‑year “Court Operations” master’s program launching in 2026/27, alongside research to improve judicial legislation and expanded foreign cooperation.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Economy

Job Vacancies, Wages, and Remittances Climb in Q2 with Shifts in Migration Routes

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank reports Q2 labor demand and incomes strengthening alongside a remittance surge. Posted vacancies rose 28.7% quarter-on-quarter, concentrated in trade (19.4%), food service (17.5%), and industry (16.8%). Active résumés increased, but online job search eased, pointing to skills mismatches. Firms planning to expand headcount fell to 30.2% while those keeping staff rose to 61.2%, signaling steady labor demand but moderating growth expectations. Nominal wages grew 17.2% y/y (real: 7.3%), lifting average pay to nearly 6 million soums; finance and ICT remain top-earning sectors. Real wage growth trails regional peers, risking softer consumption. Remittances reached $4.8 billion (+21.4% y/y), with momentum shifting toward the Baltics (+65.6%) and Europe, while growth from Russia and the U.S. slowed; Asia remained stable. The Central Bank links the gains to stronger host-country currencies, rising pay, and robust activity in destination markets.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

SOCAR Begins Ustyurt Exploration with $2B PSA as Baku Anticipates Major Oil Find

Published: 2025-08-23

Azerbaijan’s state oil company SOCAR has started exploration under a production-sharing agreement in Uzbekistan’s Ustyurt plateau, targeting six investment blocks (Bayterak, Terengquduq, Birgori, Xaroy, Qoraqalpoq, Qulboy). The deal, signed July 24, commits SOCAR to 3D seismic over at least 1,000 sq km and drilling at least one exploration well within five years, with total investment estimated at $2 billion. Forecast resources suggest up to 100 million tons of oil and 35 bcm of gas if discoveries are commercial. The initiative could reduce Uzbekistan’s reliance on imported oil products, which totaled $1.97 billion in 2024. During a Trilateral Summit in Turkmenbashi, Azerbaijan’s president highlighted early momentum and near-term expectations.

"We have begun cooperation in the energy sector with Uzbekistan... We expect good news within one to two years and are eagerly awaiting reports of a major oil field discovery in Uzbekistan." - President Ilham Aliyev (gazeta.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Shineray Vehicles to Be Assembled at Asaka Motors Plant with Monthly Capacity of 1,500 Units

Published: 2025-08-23

China’s Shineray brand will now be produced in Uzbekistan at the Asaka Motors facility in Sirdaryo region. The plant targets output of 100 vehicles per day, equivalent to 1,500 per month. Local assembly signals growing diversification in Uzbekistan’s auto sector, where Chinese manufacturers have expanded presence through joint ventures and contract manufacturing. Increased localization can reduce import costs, shorten delivery times, and support parts supply chains, while production at scale may open options for regional exports if quality and certification standards are met. Investors will watch for details on model line-up, local content thresholds, and dealership network expansion, which will determine pricing and market positioning against established players. No officials or company representatives were quoted in the announcement.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Dollar’s Long-Running Rise Against the Soʻm Pauses, Dimming Appeal of USD Savings

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbek media report a break in the long-standing pattern of steady U.S. dollar appreciation against the Uzbek soʻm, raising questions about the attractiveness of holding savings in dollars. While details are limited, a pause or reversal in the dollar’s trajectory can influence household saving behavior, corporate treasury strategies, and import pricing. Any sustained stabilization or strengthening of the soʻm could lower local-currency costs for dollar-denominated imports and reduce exchange-rate pass-through to inflation. Conversely, if the move proves temporary, dollarization pressures could resume. For investors and businesses, monitoring the Central Bank’s liquidity operations, seasonal trade flows, and remittance dynamics will be key to assessing whether this is a short-term fluctuation or a shift in trend. No official statements or policy changes were cited in the report.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Poverty Rate Halves in Four Years as Rural Incomes Drive Gains, Inequality Now Eases

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s national poverty rate fell from 17% in 2021 to 8.9% in 2024, driven largely by rural income growth and labor earnings, according to new Household Budget Survey data. Rural poverty dropped sharply from nearly 20% to 9.2%, narrowing the rural-urban gap to 0.7 percentage points. Regional disparities persist: Xorazm, Jizzakh, Syrdaryo and Karakalpakstan remain above average, while Navoi, Tashkent city and Samarkand are lower. In 2023, faster income gains among the top quintile widened inequality (Gini 31.2 to 34.5), slowing poverty reduction; 2024 saw slower overall growth but more inclusive gains—especially for the rural bottom quintile—accelerating poverty declines. Labor earnings accounted for over 90% of the 2023–2024 poverty reduction; social benefits prevented an estimated rise to 9.5%. Remittance coverage among the poorest fell from 42% to 29%, suggesting weaker migration-linked support. Targeting of child benefits improved but still misses many poorest households. The new “From Poverty to Prosperity” program aims to integrate registries, expand services, and create 5.2 million jobs to reach a 6% poverty rate by end-2025.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Qatar Firms to Invest in Pharma and Smart-City Projects Following High-Level Tashkent Delegation Visit

Published: 2025-08-23

A high-level Uzbek delegation visited Doha this week, meeting the Qatari emir and key ministers, and secured agreements for Qatari companies to invest in pharmaceutical manufacturing and smart-city zone development in Uzbekistan. The talks were led by Uzbekistan’s foreign affairs minister alongside the ministers for investments, industry, and trade, signaling a coordinated push to attract Gulf capital. The planned projects suggest an emphasis on value-added health sector capabilities and urban digital infrastructure, aligning with Tashkent’s broader industrial modernization and city management goals. While timelines and financing volumes were not disclosed, Qatar’s participation could diversify Uzbekistan’s investor base and introduce advanced standards in urban planning and pharma production, potentially enabling export-oriented growth and technology transfer.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Beijing to Host Uzbekistan–China Trade and Investment Forum on 28 August

Published: 2025-08-23

Beijing will host the Uzbekistan–China Trade, Economic and Investment Forum on 28 August, spotlighting the two countries’ broader economic potential and specific investment opportunities. The program includes government-to-business (G2B) and business-to-business (B2B) negotiations, positioning the event as a deal-making platform. Organizers emphasize priority sectors for future cooperation and aim to expand business ties, share expertise, and elevate partnerships to a new qualitative level. For international firms tracking Central Asia–China connectivity, the forum signals continued alignment with China’s market and capital, offering prospects in manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and services. While no specific agreements are disclosed, the structured G2B and B2B format suggests targeted matchmaking that could translate into near-term project pipelines and expanded market access for participants.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Sirdaryo Hosts Investment Forum Targeting Deal-Making and Project Showcases in Late August

Published: 2025-08-23

Sirdaryo region will stage its flagship investment forum on 28–29 August under the banner “Do Business in Sirdaryo,” bringing together more than 500 participants, according to the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade. Positioned as the region’s main investor event of the year, the forum aims to spotlight Sirdaryo’s rapid economic development and expanding opportunities for private capital across manufacturing, logistics, and services. Organizers plan to present top project pipelines, concrete proposals, and partnership initiatives with an emphasis on practical implementation. International investors can expect curated sessions to facilitate matchmaking, along with region-specific briefings on incentives and infrastructure. While a detailed agenda is not published, authorities indicate the program will prioritize actionable deal flow and collaborative ventures to accelerate local industrial growth and diversify the investment base.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Black-Market Currency Brokers in Fergana Exploit Buyers Near Central Bazaar

Published: 2025-08-23

A reported group of currency brokers operating beside Fergana city’s central bazaar is allegedly defrauding customers seeking faster exchanges than banks can provide, according to Kun.uz. Locals, frustrated by queues at official exchange points, are drawn to this informal market where they reportedly receive unfavorable rates or are short-changed during the transaction process. The account suggests a recurring pattern targeting those who “just want to avoid bank lines,” with victims realizing losses only after the deal. The claims highlight ongoing demand for cash dollars outside formal channels and persistent gaps in consumer protection and enforcement around street-level currency trading. The report underscores the risks of bypassing licensed exchange points, particularly as Uzbekistan continues to liberalize currency rules while curbing illicit trade. No official response or law enforcement action was cited in the piece.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Foreign Arrivals Jump 49% in Seven Months, Driven by Regional Visitors and Family Visits

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan recorded 6.3 million foreign arrivals in the first seven months of 2025, up 48.9% year on year, according to the National Statistics Committee. Growth was led by neighboring markets: Kyrgyzstan (1.85 million), Kazakhstan (1.47 million), and Tajikistan (1.44 million). Russia (536,849) and Afghanistan (267,485) followed, with China (103,158) and Turkey (96,492) notable among non-CIS sources. Travel purpose remains heavily VFR-led (visiting friends and relatives) at 4.34 million, while leisure tourism totaled 949,933. Business travel accounted for 710,303, with 255,136 commercial trips, 54,882 for medical purposes, and 10,701 for study. The dominance of regional, land-border flows and VFR traffic underscores ongoing recovery dynamics and suggests continued reliance on neighboring source markets, while sub-1 million leisure arrivals indicate room for growth in destination marketing and air connectivity to diversify beyond the region.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Wage Growth Lags Regional Peers as Central Bank Flags Risk to Purchasing Power

Published: 2025-08-23

Real wage growth in Uzbekistan trailed regional averages in early 2024, according to the Central Bank’s Q2 labor market review. In January–March, real wages rose 7.2% year-on-year versus 9.8% across Central Asia and 9.1% including parts of the Caucasus. The Bank warns that a prolonged gap could erode purchasing power and weaken domestic demand. In Q2, nominal wages grew 17.2% and real wages 7.3%, with the national average salary near 6 million soums. The statutory minimum wage stood at about $91—well below Belarus ($243), Azerbaijan ($235), and Mongolia ($222). The annual minimum wage equaled 35% of GDP per capita in Uzbekistan, a level the Bank associates with relatively more even income distribution compared with Kazakhstan (14%), Kyrgyzstan (14%), and Georgia (12%). Sectorally, finance and insurance (16.3m soums) and ICT (14.8m) lead pay levels; construction saw the weakest growth, with real wages down 2.8% year-on-year.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Singapore Investor Proposes $10M Five-Star Hotel Near Registan in Samarkand

Published: 2025-08-23

A Singapore-led joint venture has unveiled plans to build a five-star hotel in Samarkand, with a total investment of $10 million, according to the regional administration. The project, presented by investor and joint venture director Kan Singh Kapoor, would rise about 1.5 km from Registan Square and adhere to UNESCO height restrictions and modern comfort standards. The facility is slated for the Singapore–Samarkand joint venture site. Regional governor Adiz Boboyev instructed officials to scrutinize project documents, identify any shortcomings, and prepare recommendations. The final approval will rest with the city planning council. Boboyev also pledged government support within existing regulations to facilitate the investment.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s Business Ombudsman reported that a company in Navoiy region—identified as “Uchquduq” LLC—has been reimbursed funds unlawfully debited by local tax officials. Following a regional tax audit, authorities assessed over 2 billion UZS in additional taxes and penalties and withdrew the amount directly from the firm’s bank account. A court later invalidated the tax authority’s decision, yet the funds were not promptly returned. Subsequent review found procedural violations during the audit, leading to an administrative fine against a responsible official and ensuring the company received 2.16 billion UZS back. The case underscores ongoing enforcement of business rights protections and reiterates the requirement for tax bodies to strictly comply with legislation when conducting audits and executing recoveries.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

Direct Flights Between Tashkent and Ashgabat Planned Following Trilateral Summit

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan agreed to restore direct air services after a trilateral meeting in Avaza involving leaders of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan. Transport ministers Ilhom Mahkamov (Uzbekistan) and Dovran Saburov (Turkmenistan Airlines) signed a protocol on civil aviation cooperation, creating the framework to launch routes that have been dormant for years. The initiative revives earlier plans dating back to 2017 and follows renewed talks in 2021. Operational timelines and carriers were not detailed, but the move signals improving connectivity across Central Asia and the Caspian transport corridor.

"We signed the document today, and in the near future there will be an opportunity to launch them between our countries." - Ilhom Mahkamov, Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan (anhor.uz)

The summit also touched on regional logistics, with Uzbekistan expressing readiness to use its own ferries for cargo across the Caspian, complementing prospective air links and broader trade facilitation.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Caspian Trilateral Meeting Concludes with Joint Statement and Cultural Diplomacy in Turkmenistan

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev joined Turkmen national leader and Halk Maslahaty Chair Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev for a trilateral meeting in the Avaza tourism zone on the Caspian coast. Talks culminated in a joint statement and the signing of several documents, underscoring intent to deepen regional coordination. Leaders later briefed media and attended an equestrian showcase by Turkmenistan’s “Galkinish” national horse sport group, part of a cultural program reinforcing soft-power ties. In a symbolic gesture, Berdimuhamedov presented Mirziyoyev with a camel and calf—traditional emblems of prosperity—highlighting the ceremonial warmth of the visit. The Uzbek leader departed Turkmenbashi for Tashkent following the events, with Turkmen officials seeing him off at the airport. While specifics of the documents were not disclosed, the format signals growing Caspian connectivity and energy-transport dialogue between Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Presidential Working Visit Signals Renewed Engagement with Turkmenistan

Published: 2025-08-23

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev paid a working visit to Turkmenistan. While specific agenda items were not disclosed, such trips typically prioritize energy cooperation, transport connectivity across the Caspian corridor, and water management in the Amu Darya basin—areas central to trade logistics and regional stability. For businesses, closer coordination can facilitate customs harmonization and new cross-border infrastructure, potentially easing freight movement and reducing costs. The visit also comes as Central Asian governments pursue judicial and economic reforms to attract investment; improved legal predictability and regional coordination often move in tandem. Market watchers will focus on any follow-up communiqués outlining energy swap mechanisms, transit fee frameworks, or timelines for joint projects, as these would provide clearer signals for investment planning and supply chain adjustments. No official statements were published at the time of reporting.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Washington Declares September 1 as “Uzbekistan Independence Day” in the U.S. Capital

Published: 2025-08-23

Washington, D.C. has officially designated September 1 as “Uzbekistan Independence Day,” marking the 34th anniversary of the country’s statehood and signaling warmer bilateral ties. The mayor’s proclamation highlights the U.S. as an early recognizer of Uzbekistan’s sovereignty and frames the designation as both symbolic and reflective of deepening links. Relations have advanced to a strategic partnership in recent years, opening new avenues in political, economic, and cultural cooperation. The proclamation also credits Uzbekistan’s post-independence trajectory of economic reform and engagement with the international community, emphasizing social stability and mutual respect. Washington’s city government thanked Uzbekistan’s Embassy for its role in strengthening ties and fostering cultural exchange, underscoring the growing profile of Central Asia in the capital’s diplomatic landscape.

"Designating September 1 as Independence Day in Washington is not only symbolic, but also expresses the strengthening ties between our peoples." - Mayor Muriel Bowser (uzdaily.uz)

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

Capital Formation and Construction Accelerate, With Tashkent Dominating Regional Totals

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan recorded 273.4 trillion soums in fixed capital investment in H1 2025, according to the National Statistics Committee, underscoring continued expansion in infrastructure and productive assets. Tashkent city led with 47.9 trillion soums, followed by Tashkent region (40.7 trillion) and Namangan (29.2 trillion). Other major recipients included Qashqadaryo (20.8 trillion), Bukhara (19.1 trillion), Navoi (18.2 trillion), and Samarkand (18 trillion). Construction output reached 162.9 trillion soums in January–July 2025, up 10.7% year-on-year, with buildings and structures accounting for 68.7% of activity. Tashkent city again dominated construction value at roughly 47.2 trillion soums, far outpacing Tashkent region (18.6 trillion) and Bukhara (10.6 trillion). Small firms and microenterprises delivered 52.6% of construction work, while the informal sector represented 25.2%, highlighting both broad-based growth and persistent informality.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tianjin Rail Transit Explores Role in Tashkent Metro Upgrades and New Lines

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade held talks with Tianjin Rail Transit Group on 22 August to explore cooperation on metro and rail development. The Chinese company expressed interest in reconstructing existing Tashkent Metro routes and participating in the construction of new lines. Both sides reviewed priority areas for collaboration and agreed to continue discussions, including moving toward a memorandum of understanding. Potential projects align with Uzbekistan’s push to modernize urban transport infrastructure and expand high-capacity transit to meet rising demand in the capital. For international stakeholders, the engagement signals growing openness to Chinese expertise in design, engineering, and potential financing structures, and suggests forthcoming tenders or PPP frameworks around metro expansion and rail upgrades in Tashkent.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Reroutes Nearly 20 Bus Lines During Rustaveli Street Construction

Published: 2025-08-23

Tashkent’s Transport Department temporarily altered routes for nearly 20 city buses due to construction on Sh. Rustaveli Street between Grand Mir Hotel and Cho‘pon ota Street. Key changes: routes 12 and 45 now loop via Bobur – Kichik Halqa Yo‘li – Qushbegi – Muqimiy – Bobur; route 18 uses Muqimiy – Arnasoy – Cho‘pon ota; route 33 runs Cho‘pon ota – S. Sirojiddinov – Shoxjaxon – Bobur; and route 126 operates Sh. Rustaveli – Cho‘pon ota – Bog‘i Bo‘ston – At-Termiziy – O‘rikzor – Bobur. Routes 69 and 114 no longer pass Cho‘pon ota. Buses 38, 40, 57, 58 are redirected from Janubiy Vokzal to Kichik Halqa Yo‘li. Further adjustments affect routes 2, 67, 80, 81, 94, 98, 127, and 135 (shortened to “Muqimiy ko‘chasi” stop). Expect heavier congestion and longer headways during reconstruction. No timeline for completion was provided.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Schedules Gas Outages for Four Districts During Network Repairs

Published: 2025-08-23

Natural gas supply will be temporarily suspended on 25 August across parts of Chilonzor, Shayxontohur, Uchtepa, and Yashnobod districts for maintenance, according to Hududgaz Poytaxt. Outages run 10:00–20:00 in Chilonzor, Shayxontohur, and Uchtepa, and 10:00–18:00 in Yashnobod. Affected areas include the “Al-Khorazmi,” “Bahoriston,” “Guliston,” and “Bekto‘pi” neighborhoods in Chilonzor; four large consumers in Shayxontohur; “Foziltepa,” “Ko‘ksaroy,” “O‘rikzor,” and “Zarafshon” in Uchtepa; and Maxtumquli Street in Yashnobod. In total, over 3,600 households, 162 multi-storey buildings, and 306 large consumers are impacted. Service will be restored after repairs conclude. Businesses and residents should plan for temporary disruptions to heating, cooking, and industrial processes during the specified hours.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Tashkent Region Governor Backs Sea Breeze Chorvoq Project, Pledges Strict Oversight

Published: 2025-08-23

Tashkent region governor Zoyir Mirzayev voiced support for the Sea Breeze Uzbekistan resort planned on the Chorvoq reservoir, citing environmental safeguards and tourism gains. He said initial concerns eased after assurances that wastewater will be treated and not discharged into the reservoir.

"I was worried at first like everyone, but guarantees that water will be treated and not released into Chorvoq eased my concerns. As governor, I am interested in increasing tourist numbers and revenues, and I will keep this under control—this is directly my duty." - Zoyir Mirzayev (gazeta.uz)

The regional administration has committed to transparency, compensation for affected landholders, and measures against actions contrary to public interests. The project’s masterplan involves UK firm Scott Brownrigg; trees will be relocated. The joint venture, registered on 4 August by Agalarov Development and Ulugbek Mahmudov, will lease 577 hectares for 25 years at a reduced rate. The Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade says construction will use private capital without budget funds, with incentives offset by a required $240 million payment. Authorities expect the complex to position Chorvoq as an all-season international tourism destination.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Society

Security Services Detain 21 in Namangan over Alleged ISIS Propaganda and Recruitment

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s State Security Service (DXX), working with police, detained 21 suspects in Namangan region for allegedly promoting Islamic State ideology and attempting to recruit followers via closed social media channels. Investigators say the group’s organizer, a woman from Pop district’s Yangiobod, connected online with a seasonal worker from Fergana based in South Korea; under his influence, she allegedly joined extremist activities. The pair reportedly entered a religious marriage and planned to “hijra” to conflict zones. Relatives, neighbors, and other at‑risk individuals were allegedly drawn into closed channels that circulated execution scenes, combat footage, and calls to violently overthrow the government. Authorities seized religious literature and electronic media. Four suspected leaders face charges under Criminal Code Articles 244-1 and 244-2; two are in custody while inquiries continue for 17 others. The DXX notes prior warnings were ignored, underscoring ongoing counter-extremism scrutiny of online networks.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

No Additional Days Off Announced for Independence Day Holiday

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Employment clarified the official rest schedule for Independence Day on 1 September, confirming there will be no transferred or additional days off. For five-day workweek employees, the holiday break spans three days: Saturday 30 August, Sunday 31 August, and Monday 1 September. For six-day workweek employees, the break covers Sunday 31 August and Monday 1 September. The ministry emphasized that standard weekend and holiday rules apply without adjustments, which means business operations should plan staffing and payroll around existing schedules, particularly in sectors using six-day rosters. This decision avoids the common practice of shifting rest days when holidays fall near weekends, streamlining continuity for public services and private enterprises alike.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Saida Mirziyoyeva Highlights Openness and Regional Ties at Bishkek “Zakovat Asian Cup II” Ceremony

Published: 2025-08-23

Presidential Administration head Saida Mirziyoyeva attended the closing ceremony of the Zakovat Asian Cup II in Bishkek during her visit to Kyrgyzstan, underscoring growing cultural and educational links between the neighbors. Her participation signals continued emphasis on people-to-people ties and soft power initiatives that complement broader regional cooperation. The event, centered on intellectual competition, reflects a shared agenda across Central Asia to promote youth engagement and knowledge exchange as part of long-term integration efforts. While no policy announcements were reported, the presence of a senior Uzbek official at a high-profile gathering in Kyrgyzstan reinforces bilateral goodwill and coordination in cultural diplomacy. The message of openness—extended beyond borders to “hearts”—resonates with ongoing initiatives to ease cross-border interaction and deepen trust in the region.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

Eco-Tourism Hub Takes Shape at Aydar–Arnasay With Green Infrastructure and Local Jobs

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan is accelerating eco-tourism development at the Aydar–Arnasay lake area, aligning with national priorities to expand domestic and pilgrimage tourism and build new routes. The project includes eco-lodges, pedestrian and cycling paths, and an information center, designed in harmony with the environment. Sustainability features—solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and waste-sorting facilities—are being integrated to reduce the site’s footprint. Construction involves over 60 pieces of machinery and more than 190 workers, largely from surrounding communities, signaling immediate local employment benefits and knock-on effects for the regional economy. The complex is slated for full commissioning in November 2025 and is positioned as a practical demonstration of the country’s tourism and sustainable development agenda. No direct official statements were quoted in the source article.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Universities and Academic Lyceums Set September Start Dates for 2025–2026 Academic Year

Published: 2025-08-23

Uzbekistan’s higher education and academic lyceum calendar is set: classes begin 3 September for all academic lyceum students and first-year university students, with second year and above resuming 8 September, according to the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation. The ministry has also approved an induction program for new undergraduates, including a “Credit Education System Introduction” week and matriculation events. The orientation will brief students on credit–module mechanics, selection of elective courses, and academic integrity, and aims to build independent learning skills—important as institutions continue transitioning to credit-based frameworks common in Europe. The staggered start gives universities time to process admissions and organize induction, while aligning the academic cycle for international mobility and credit recognition across partner institutions.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Health

Neurology and Stroke Center to Be Established with JICA Partnership

Published: 2025-08-23

A presidential decree approves the creation of a Republican Specialized Neurology and Stroke Scientific-Practical Medical Center in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), according to kun.uz. The project formalizes bilateral health cooperation and is expected to strengthen specialized neurological care and stroke treatment capacity nationwide. While details on financing, timelines, and location were not disclosed, JICA’s involvement typically brings technical expertise, training, and equipment procurement, which could improve diagnostic standards and clinical outcomes. The initiative aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader health sector modernization, signaling a focus on non-communicable disease management and advanced clinical services. Policymakers are likely aiming to reduce stroke mortality and enhance rehabilitation services, with potential for future regional training and research programs leveraging Japanese best practices and technology transfer.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Arts

Bukhara to Host New Biennial of Contemporary Art Starting 2025

Published: 2025-08-23

Bukhara will stage a new international contemporary art biennial every two years from September to November, beginning 5 September–20 November 2025, under a presidential decree signed on 21 August. The initiative aims to position Bukhara—already on UNESCO’s World Heritage list and Creative Cities Network—as a regional hub linking heritage with the creative economy and tourism. Fourteen heritage sites will be transformed into a creative cluster, with over 60 art installations planned, a 10-week public program spanning education, culture and gastronomy, and an international academic symposium with 30+ curators and scholars. The Culture and Arts Development Foundation will serve as the organizing body, while government will approve a costed action plan within three days, introduce customs exemptions for imported equipment and art through year-end 2025, and upgrade site infrastructure and museum displays. The move follows two decades of contemporary art biennials in Tashkent and signals a broader cultural-industrial strategy.

Coverage:

Back to Table of Contents

Comments

Related

Latest