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Uzbekistan — Daily

Uzbekistan Daily: Mirziyoyev heads to China for SCO summit, deputies gain co-funding power, and ministries clash over licensing

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Politics

Deputies Gain Power to Advance ‘Open Budget’ Projects as State-Citizen Co‑Funding Begins in 2026

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan approved reforms to the “Tashabbusli budjet” (Open Budget) participatory financing process, creating two new paths to funding. From 2026, each lower-house deputy can annually select two previously non-winning projects per electoral district via the Open Budget portal; these will be deemed winners and financed from the republican budget, with about 3.3 billion soums allocated per deputy each year. Separately, a state–citizen partnership model starts in 2026: if residents voluntarily cover 50% of a socially significant project’s cost, the remaining 50% will come from the state, bypassing the vote threshold. The Economy and Finance Ministry plans to budget 1 trillion soums for 2026, split roughly between deputy initiatives (494 billion) and co-funded projects (506 billion), and to launch a public interactive map of funded projects. Rules limiting frequent winners will also be eased from September 2025.

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Mirziyoyev Sets Growth, Green Energy, and Social Investment Agenda at Independence Day Address

Published: 2025-08-30

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev used Uzbekistan’s 34th Independence Day to frame recent economic gains and outline next steps on business support, energy transition, and social services. He cited GDP doubling in eight years to $115 billion in 2023, reserves above $48 billion, and nearly $130 billion in FDI since 2016, with year-end GDP projected at $130 billion. Policy signals included tighter action against the shadow economy, expanded incentives for entrepreneurs, and a push to lift renewables’ share of power generation to 54% by 2030 after reaching 30% this year. Urban-style infrastructure is planned for every village via master plans, while education, healthcare, and targeted social protection will see continued funding to reduce poverty and raise human capital.

"We will mobilize whatever resources are needed for education and public health, and we will expand opportunities for law-abiding entrepreneurs." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uza.uz)

"By 2030, with $35 billion in direct investment, we will raise the share of green energy to 54%." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (kun.uz)

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President Highlights Eight Years of Reforms and Metrics at Independence Day Address

Published: 2025-08-30

"We have achieved significant progress over the past eight years." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (gazeta.uz)

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev used his speech at the ceremony marking the 34th anniversary of independence to underscore achievements since he took office in December 2016. Citing numerous figures and indicators, he outlined economic and social gains attributed to reforms launched over the past eight years. The address, framed as a scorecard of progress, emphasized measurable outcomes to reinforce continuity of policy and governance priorities. While specific metrics were not detailed in the report, the focus signals ongoing efforts to benchmark performance and communicate results to the public and institutions. The timing, during a national commemoration, positions the reform narrative as central to the country’s development trajectory and may foreshadow continued emphasis on targets and accountability in upcoming policy cycles.

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President Vows No Backtracking on Democratic Reforms

Published: 2025-08-30

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening democratic reforms, signaling continuity in the country’s political trajectory despite potential challenges. The statement underscores the leadership’s intent to maintain reform momentum as Tashkent continues institutional changes across governance, justice, and the economy that have attracted increased foreign interest in recent years.

"Whatever challenges arise before us, we will never turn back from the path of deepening democratic reforms and satisfying our people." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (kun.uz)

The pledge suggests policy stability and sustained reform rhetoric, which investors and international partners often watch for indications of regulatory predictability. While no new measures were announced, the emphasis on not reversing course highlights a defensive posture against potential political or economic headwinds and frames democratic progress as a central benchmark for domestic legitimacy and external engagement.

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Economy

China Ties Deepen in Leather-Footwear as Tata Plans New $10m in Uzbekistan and CCPIT Backs Joint Projects

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan advanced its leather-footwear agenda in China with investor outreach and new capital commitments. Tata Shoes Group, already over $20 million invested in Uzbek operations, plans an additional $10 million after market analysis highlighted strong regional demand—especially for women’s footwear. The expansion would broaden lines to men’s, children’s, and specialty shoes, supporting jobs and exports. In parallel, the O‘zcharmsanoat association promoted upgraded production capacity, export reach into Europe, Turkey, China, and Southeast Asia, and incentives in small industrial zones designed to fast-track joint ventures. Meetings with CCPIT Guangzhou emphasized logistics and infrastructure advantages, with Chinese firms expressing interest in cluster-based projects and technology transfer to scale production and exports. The combined moves signal a next-stage buildout of Uzbekistan’s footwear value chain through Chinese partnerships and targeted FDI.

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President Reports GDP Doubled in Eight Years with Record Reserves, FDI and Renewables Expansion

Published: 2025-08-30

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev marked Independence Day by outlining eight-year gains: GDP has doubled to $115 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $130 billion by year-end; exports reached $26 billion; and foreign reserves surpassed $48 billion for the first time. Since reforms began, around $130 billion in FDI has flowed in, with 35 billion planned this year to establish nearly 9,000 enterprises. Seventy-nine major projects worth $4 billion were launched ahead of the holiday. Employment programs reportedly placed 5 million people in eight months, targeting 5.5 million jobs for 2024, while 700,000 labor migrants returned. Power demand is up sharply; generation rose from 59 TWh (2016) to 85 TWh (2025), aiming for 97 TWh next year. Renewables reached a 30% share, with a plan to hit 54% by 2030 backed by $35 billion in investment.

"Entrepreneurship has become the main driver of the New Uzbekistan’s economy and a leading factor of development." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uzdaily.uz)

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Microfinance Volumes Nearly Double in H1 2025 as Banks and Fintech Lend Heavily to Individuals

Published: 2025-08-30

Credit institutions delivered 66.9 trillion soums in microfinance services in H1 2025, up 1.9 times year-on-year. Commercial banks accounted for 80% (53.6 trln soums), microfinance organizations 18% (12.0 trln), and pawnshops 2% (1.3 trln). The surge was driven by bank volumes rising 1.9x, MFIs 2.2x, and pawnshops 31%. Small-ticket products dominate: 91% of services were up to 100 million soums. Microfinance’s share of all lending rose from 26% to 34%. Private banks provided 70% of bank microfinance; growth leaders included TBC Bank (3.2x) and Invest Finance Bank (3.1x). Microloans comprised 74% of products, expanding 2.2x; other products (including business microcredits, cards, overdrafts, consumer loans) rose 1.8x. Individuals received 92% of volumes, with self-employed clients tripling; sole proprietors’ uptake fell 33%. National-currency lending formed 99.5% of the market, while FX microfinance contracted 66%.

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Turkish Confectionery Plant Planned Following Ambassador’s Visit to Kahramanmaraş

Published: 2025-08-30

Turkey is exploring the launch of a confectionery manufacturing plant in Uzbekistan, following a working visit by Uzbekistan’s ambassador Ilhom Haydarov to Turkey’s Kahramanmaraş province, according to kun.uz. While specific investment figures, timelines, and partners were not disclosed, the move signals growing Turkish interest in Uzbekistan’s fast‑moving consumer goods sector and could diversify the country’s food processing base beyond Tashkent and Samarkand hubs. Kahramanmaraş is a noted Turkish center for confectionery and food processing, suggesting potential technology transfer and supplier linkages. For Uzbekistan, a greenfield confectionery facility would target both domestic demand and regional exports within Central Asia, leveraging recent logistics corridors and tariff reforms. Further details on project scope and incentives are expected from subsequent bilateral meetings and potential agreements between Turkish investors and Uzbek authorities.

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Privatization of State Banks Slows as Investor Appetite and Bank Metrics Weaken

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s planned privatization of state-owned banks faces delays linked to reduced investor interest and weaker bank fundamentals, according to former finance minister Odilbek Isoqov, cited by kun.uz. He attributes the slowdown partly to the regional risk environment following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has dampened demand for strategic assets in Central Asia. Isoqov also points to internal balance-sheet pressures at many state banks, including low returns on equity and elevated levels of nonperforming assets—factors that complicate valuation and deter buyers. For policymakers, the combination of geopolitical risk and bank-specific performance issues raises transaction risk and could necessitate longer timelines, stronger cleanup measures, or revised deal structures to make offerings investable for international financial institutions and strategic investors.

"The Russia-Ukraine war has reduced investors’ interest in purchasing strategic assets in the region." - Odilbek Isoqov, former finance minister (kun.uz)

"In most state banks, returns on capital are low and the share of problematic assets is high." - Odilbek Isoqov, former finance minister (kun.uz)

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July-to-August Price Check Finds Mixed Movements Across Tashkent Markets and Supermarkets

Published: 2025-08-30

A price comparison across Chorsu bazaar and three major supermarket chains (Korzinka, Makro, Baraka) shows mixed shifts from July to August. Fresh produce diverged: onions generally fell (e.g., Chorsu 5,000 to 4,000 so‘m; Baraka 4,900 to 3,900), while carrots often rose (Chorsu 8,000–10,000 to 10,000–12,000). Potatoes were stable at Chorsu but widened in range at Korzinka and Makro. Meat moved unevenly: beef stayed flat or edged up in supermarkets, while Chorsu lamb dropped sharply (120,000 to 75,000), contrasting with supermarket increases. Staples were steady to slightly higher: sugar mostly unchanged, rice ranges broadened, eggs and bread nudged up at several outlets, and cooking oil mostly held with minor adjustments. The data highlights store-by-store volatility and seasonal effects, underscoring the need for outlet-specific monitoring.

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Diplomacy

Mirziyoyev Heads to China for SCO Leaders’ Summit, Xi Talks and WWII Victory Commemorations

Published: 2025-08-30

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is in China from 30 August to 3 September for the SCO Heads of State Council in Tianjin, a “SCO Plus” summit, bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping in Beijing on 2 September, and China’s 80th anniversary events marking the end of World War II. The SCO meetings are expected to adopt the Tianjin Declaration and decisions on security, digital economy, green industry, energy, tourism, and organizational reforms. Uzbekistan signals deeper economic alignment with China, building on rising trade, major energy and infrastructure projects, and visa-free travel. A meeting with Russia’s Vladimir Putin is planned on the sidelines, highlighting Tashkent’s multi-vector diplomacy across Eurasia. Policy messaging emphasizes SCO’s role as a pragmatic cooperation platform rather than a bloc.

"China and Kazakhstan will continue to support each other on core interests and expand comprehensive cooperation, regardless of changes in the international situation." - Xi Jinping, President of China (qalampir.uz)

"Tashkent and Beijing’s partnership has become one of the pillars of a new Eurasia." - Ilzat Qosimov, Deputy Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan (uzdaily.uz)

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China Ties Deepen with New Agri-Tech Parks, Pharma Training Offers, and Joint Project Talks

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan and China advanced economic ties during a Beijing trade and investment forum, sealing agreements to establish a joint agri-industrial park and a China–Uzbekistan biotechnology and agricultural technologies industrial park. The initiatives target seed development, cotton cultivation, and wider agri-tech adoption, aiming to create jobs and diffuse modern technologies. Parallel discussions in the pharmaceutical sector explored insulin, intermediates, and vaccine production, with Chinese firms proposing training for Uzbek specialists and potential joint manufacturing and investment under Chinese grant financing. Separate talks with Shaanxi’s Supply and Trade Cooperation Association emphasized new joint projects in agriculture, processing, and high-quality food production, with both sides signaling readiness to scale export–import capacity. The combined moves suggest a pipeline of technology transfer, capacity building, and industrial localization across agriculture and pharma.

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Bilateral Push Elevates U.S.–Uzbek ties with new focus on IT, minerals, and space projects

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan hosted a series of high-level meetings with U.S. counterparts signaling a broader, project-focused phase in relations. Energy and mining officials met U.S. Ambassador Jonathan Henick to deepen cooperation across mineral resources, industrial production, and electrical engineering, with outcomes framed as expanding the strategic partnership (uza.uz). Foreign Minister Baxtiyor Saidov and U.S. Presidential Special Envoy for Global Partnerships Paolo Zampolli discussed building stronger bridges in education, culture, innovation, and business, and addressed regional and global issues to coordinate on stability and prosperity (uzdaily.uz). In digital policy, IT Minister Sherzod Shermatov and Zampolli reviewed collaboration on data center development, space initiatives via Uzbekkosmos, AI deployment, digital services exports, and startup support, alongside English-language education and international profiling efforts (uzdaily.uz).

"We are ready to take cooperation to a new stage in digitalization between our countries." - Paolo Zampolli, U.S. Presidential Special Envoy for Global Partnerships (uzdaily.uz)

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Tashkent and Berlin Discuss Next Steps to Expand Trade and Investment Ties

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade Akram Aliev met Germany’s Ambassador Manfred Huterer in Tashkent to review current cooperation and outline new avenues for growth. Discussions focused on deepening joint projects across industry, energy, agriculture, and construction—sectors already underpinning bilateral economic ties. The sides also coordinated upcoming bilateral events and emphasized facilitating direct engagement between business communities to originate new projects. The meeting highlighted Germany’s role as a strategic partner and stressed translating agreements into concrete actions. The outcome signals sustained momentum for German participation in Uzbekistan’s modernization agenda, with practical steps expected to accelerate deal flow and broaden sectoral collaboration. No formal policy changes were announced, but both parties expressed readiness to operationalize prior understandings and strengthen institutional links supporting investment and trade.

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Jordan Waives Visas for Uzbek Citizens for 30-Day Stays from 25 September

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbek citizens will be able to enter Jordan visa-free for up to 30 days starting 25 September, following bilateral agreements reached during President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s talks with King Abdullah II in Samarkand on 26 August. The visa exemption takes effect 30 days after signing, reflecting a reciprocal arrangement that also allows Jordanian nationals visa-free entry to Uzbekistan. The move upgrades previous on-arrival access for Uzbeks to full visa-free travel, adding Jordan to the list of 35 countries granting such entry to Uzbek passport holders. The policy is expected to facilitate tourism, business travel, and cultural exchange, and signals deepening ties after high-level engagement between the two countries.

"From September 25, citizens of Uzbekistan can travel to Jordan without a visa for up to 30 days." - Akhror Burkhonov, spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (uzdaily.uz)

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Tashkent Hosts Talks with U.S. Partners on Investment, Industry and Education Expansion

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s deputy minister of investment, industry and trade, Akram Aliyev, met in Tashkent with Kurt Volker, President of Alliance Strategic Advisors LLC, and Cagri Bagcioglu, Cintana Education’s Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, to map priority areas for deeper Uzbekistan–U.S. cooperation. The sides identified strategic minerals, chemicals, healthcare, infrastructure and education as focus sectors, reflecting Tashkent’s push to attract high-value capital and technology. Education received particular attention with discussion on the development of the American University of Technology in Tashkent, launched in 2024 by Arizona State University and Cintana. The institution currently runs seven bachelor’s and three master’s programs, supplying engineering, IT and related talent for domestic industry. The parties agreed to draft new initiatives and maintain regular dialogue to scale education and economic collaboration, signaling opportunities for U.S. academic and industrial partnerships in Uzbekistan’s reforming economy.

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France Appoints Valid Fouque as New Ambassador to Tashkent, Plans Nationwide Outreach

Published: 2025-08-30

France’s newly appointed ambassador to Uzbekistan, Valid Fouque, has assumed office, signaling plans for active engagement across the country. A graduate of Sciences Po, Fouque previously worked in France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on strategic issues, served as political adviser at the French Embassy in Beijing and the Permanent Mission to the UN, and from 2020 to 2025 advised the French president on Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. He succeeds Aurélia Bouchez, who served since 2021. In an Uzbek-language address, Fouque emphasized cultural affinity and practical cooperation, indicating forthcoming regional visits to strengthen bilateral ties and development initiatives.

"I will make every effort to support the historical rapprochement of our countries." - Valid Fouque, Ambassador of France to Uzbekistan (uza.uz)

"In the coming months, I intend to visit all regions with you to strengthen the bonds linking France and Uzbekistan and achieve shared progress." - Valid Fouque, Ambassador of France to Uzbekistan (uza.uz)

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Tashkent and Singapore Mediation Centers Sign MoU to Advance Dispute Resolution

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Justice Sh. Rabiyev held working meetings in Singapore with the leadership of the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC), agreeing on future collaboration in dispute resolution and mediation development. The visit culminated in a memorandum of understanding between the Tashkent Mediation Center and SIMC. The MoU aims to strengthen professional exchanges, jointly train mediators, and promote international standards in mediation practice. For Uzbekistan, alignment with SIMC’s globally recognized frameworks could accelerate the institutionalization of mediation, reduce court backlogs, and provide businesses operating cross-border with more predictable, efficient resolution mechanisms. The partnership also positions Tashkent to tap regional demand for neutral venues and expertise, potentially improving the investment climate by offering structured, internationally benchmarked alternatives to litigation.

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Azerbaijan Studies Uzbekistan’s Managed Labor Migration Framework with Migration Agency Visit

Published: 2025-08-30

An Azerbaijani Ministry of Labor and Social Protection working group visited Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency to examine the country’s structured approach to safe and legal labor migration. Discussions focused on governance of outbound employment, legal and social safeguards for nationals working abroad, and formal cooperation mechanisms with foreign employers. The exchange suggests growing regional interest in standardized migration pathways, which could streamline bilateral labor agreements and improve worker protections. Both sides agreed to institutionalize knowledge sharing and maintain regular contact, potentially paving the way for joint programs, reciprocal recognition of contracts, and better oversight of recruitment channels. No immediate policy changes were announced, but sustained dialogue may translate into updated cooperation frameworks and practical support services for migrant workers operating across jurisdictions.

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China Daily Publishes Mirziyoyev Op-Ed on Strengthening the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

Published: 2025-08-30

China Daily has published an op-ed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev highlighting Uzbekistan’s early role in founding and consolidating the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and its growing strategic importance. The article underscores that the SCO’s work now extends beyond member-state development to improving security and livelihoods across wider regions. While specific policy measures were not detailed in the excerpt, the emphasis suggests continued Uzbek advocacy for deeper economic, security, and socio-cultural cooperation within the SCO framework. For international stakeholders, the placement in a major Chinese outlet signals Tashkent’s intent to frame the SCO as a platform for regional stability and connectivity, potentially shaping future initiatives on trade corridors, investment, and coordinated security efforts across Central and broader Eurasia.

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Infrastructure

Russia Advances Dual Nuclear Power Projects with Uzbekistan, Combining Large and Small Reactors

Published: 2025-08-30

Russia and Uzbekistan are weighing simultaneous construction of two nuclear power plants—one large-capacity unit and a small modular facility—using Russian technology. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov framed the initiative as a first-of-its-kind program in Central Asia that would mark a new phase in bilateral energy cooperation and a potential technology upgrade for Uzbekistan.

"If successfully implemented, this will be a new technological leap for Uzbekistan." - Sergey Ryabkov, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister (qalampir.uz)

Rosatom earlier indicated it expects first concrete for the small plant within about a year and has prepared proposals for the larger station, including financing models and high localization options. Current plans envision Uzbekistan financing the projects without Russian credit. Tashkent initially agreed in 2018 to build a VVER-1200 plant, then in 2024 pivoted to start with a small plant—scaled from six reactors to two—with staged commissioning targeted for 2029–2033 and site works ordered in Jizzakh by March 2026.

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Tashkent Opens 468‑Meter Underground Road; Islamic Civilization Center Nears Completion

Published: 2025-08-30

Tashkent has launched a new 468-meter, 25-meter-wide underground road along Yangi O‘zbekiston Street to ease congestion on a corridor linking the Olympic town, residential areas, and future New Tashkent. Designed to handle over 10,000 vehicles per hour, the tunnel is topped with green space to connect the “Yangi O‘zbekiston” park with the Olympic complex for safe pedestrian movement. Authorities say the route will halve travel time, save about one ton of fuel daily, and cut emissions by two tons, with provisions built for a planned metro tunnel and station. Construction of the Islamic Civilization Center has entered its final phase, featuring a 65-meter dome, four 34-meter portals, a 460-seat conference hall, and a Qur’an hall to house the historic Uthman Mushaf and rare manuscripts.

"Over eight years, we built a majestic, deeply meaningful center. Visitors will recognize our people’s rich history and gain spiritual strength here." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uza.uz)

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Construction Nears Completion at Islamic Civilization Center and Imam Bukhari Complex, Signaling Tourism Push

Published: 2025-08-30

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced that construction and landscaping at the Islamic Civilization Center and the Imam Bukhari pilgrimage complex in Samarkand are nearing completion, positioning both sites as new draws for cultural tourism. The government links the projects to a broader tourism strategy as visitor numbers surpassed 10 million in 2023 and tourism exports exceeded $3 billion. Officials expect the complexes to strengthen national identity narratives and create opportunities for local entrepreneurs through increased tourist flows. Mirziyoyev coupled the unveiling with a policy emphasis on formalizing the economy and backing compliant businesses, framing it as part of a social contract around lawful enterprise.

"I am confident these unique monuments, worthy of our people’s spiritual potential, will become attractive destinations for our citizens and the global community." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uza.uz)

"Our other goal is to support entrepreneurs who work honestly and expand opportunities for them... We are implementing important measures to curb the 'shadow' economy under the slogan, 'Honest work is the guarantee of a calm life and a prosperous society.'" - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (uza.uz)

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Society

Commemoration Held for Victims of Political Repression at Memorial Alley

Published: 2025-08-30

A remembrance ceremony took place at the Memorial Alley of Martyrs, honoring victims of political repression. The event underscores ongoing efforts to acknowledge the legacy of repression period casualties and maintain public memory of historical injustices. While details were limited, such commemorations typically involve laying wreaths, moments of silence, and participation by officials, historians, and civil society representatives. For international observers, the venue—Shahidlar xotirasi xiyoboni (Memorial Alley of Martyrs)—is a central site dedicated to those persecuted during Soviet-era repressions. These events often coincide with broader educational initiatives and exhibitions that reinforce historical awareness. No official statements or policy announcements were cited in the source, and attendance figures or specific dignitaries were not specified.

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Police Cut Preventive Watchlist Categories as 290,000 Flagged for Risk of Offending

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s Interior Ministry reported that nearly 290,000 people are registered as prone to committing offenses under the country’s preventive monitoring system. The ministry is revising the 2014 law on offense prevention to streamline categories: four preventive categories will remain, including formerly convicted individuals and those identified under 14 articles of the Administrative Code. Officials say the change has already reduced the watchlist by 60%, with the bill currently before the Senate. Authorities emphasize the program’s social-support orientation rather than punitive control, noting removals occur after one year, earlier for rehabilitation, or upon death or long-term departure abroad.

"As a result, the number of persons on the list has decreased by 60%. The draft law is now under consideration in the Senate of the Oliy Majlis." - Rahimjon Naimov, Deputy Head of the Crime Prevention Service (gazeta.uz)

"Individuals on this list only receive assistance... aimed at returning them to a healthy lifestyle through legal, social, psychological, medical, pedagogical and other support." - Muzifa Sultonova, Head of the Public Security Department press service (gazeta.uz)

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Published: 2025-08-30

Samarkand authorities have begun demolishing roughly 220 residential and commercial structures across several streets in the city’s historic core to expand the Imam Abu Mansur al-Maturidi memorial complex ahead of the scholar’s 1155th anniversary in 2025. Local officials pledge market-rate compensation and plan a 1,500-seat mosque, ablution facilities, conference hall, research center, parking, F&B outlets, and hotels. Residents and rights advocates contest both compensation levels and legality, alleging opaque decisions, pressure tactics, and noncompliance with UNESCO protocols in a World Heritage zone encompassing G‘ijduvon Street, once part of the city’s Jewish quarter and now home to tightly knit communities, including Roma groups.

"They told us the construction was by decree — but showed no decree. Later we learned it was a road for pilgrims and tourists." - Local resident (gazeta.uz)

"This is being carried out without coordination required by UNESCO, contradicting obligations to preserve authenticity and integrity." - Lawyer Diyora Rafiyeva (gazeta.uz)

UNESCO has been contacted for comment; prior violations led to Shahrisabz’s historic center being listed as endangered in 2016.

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Environment

Cooler Air and Dust Storm Risks as Winds Strengthen Nationwide Through Sept. 1

Published: 2025-08-30

UzHydromet forecasts a gradual cool-down across Uzbekistan from Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 as a northwesterly air mass moves in. Daytime highs ease from 31–36°C on Aug. 30 to 28–33°C by Aug. 31–Sept. 1, with notably cooler nights dipping to 13–16°C by Sept. 1. Conditions remain mostly dry and clear countrywide, but wind speeds will increase: many areas see 13–18 m/s, with bursts up to 20–23 m/s in places, raising the likelihood of dust storms that could reduce visibility and affect air quality. Regional outlooks align: Tashkent 30–32°C on Aug. 31; Bukhara–Navoiy 28–33°C; Qashqadaryo–Surxondaryo 31–36°C; Fergana Valley 28–33°C; Karakalpakstan–Xorazm 27–32°C. Mountain zones hold cooler at 22–27°C. Travelers should anticipate wind-related disruptions, especially in open and desert areas.

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Renewables Target Raised to 54% by 2030 with $35 Billion in New Investments

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan plans to lift renewable energy’s share of total generation to 54% by 2030, backed by $35 billion in direct investment, according to a presidential address at the 34th Independence Day ceremony in Tashkent’s “New Uzbekistan” park. Power demand has surged, with consumer numbers up 25% (about 1.6 million) and consumption rising 54%—an additional 25 billion kWh—over eight years. Generation expanded from 59 billion kWh in 2016 to 85 billion kWh, and is projected to exceed 97 billion kWh next year. This year alone, 6.5 billion kWh of green power was produced, pushing renewables to 30% of installed generation capacity. The push signals continued large-scale solar and wind deployment to meet accelerating demand and reduce reliance on conventional sources, with implications for grid upgrades and private-sector participation.

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Central Asia Plans Satellite-Based Drought Monitoring with ESCAP and Roscosmos Funding

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s space agency O‘zbekkosmos and the UN’s ESCAP are developing a satellite-driven drought monitoring system for Central Asia, backed by Roscosmos financing. The platform will fuse remote sensing, geospatial tools, and AI to deliver near real-time drought indicators, crop surveillance, and early warnings tailored to each country’s agro‑climatic conditions. National workshops in Tashkent and Dushanbe advanced technical alignment, while Uzbekistan’s priorities include integrating soil salinity control. Officials say the system will inform irrigation planning, water allocation, and planting decisions, with pilots already tracking field-level water use in Fergana, Kashkadarya, and Samarkand. Training programs aim to build capacity across agriculture, water, and meteorological agencies, culminating in a roadmap for national and regional rollout over two years.

"Early detection and monitoring enable timely responses and help minimize agriculture impacts; national and regional bodies must combine efforts for data-driven solutions." - Kareff Rafisura, ESCAP space programs economist (gazeta.uz)

"The key advantage is making decisions based on verified data, processed with AI and covering larger areas at once." - Behruz Mirzayev, senior specialist at O‘zbekkosmos (gazeta.uz)

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Samarkand Breaks Ground on Waste-to-Energy Plant as City Pilots New Collection System

Published: 2025-08-30

Samarkand has launched construction of a waste‑to‑energy facility with China’s Shanghai SUS Environment at the city’s central landfill, part of broader efforts to modernize waste management and monitoring. The $150 million plant, slated to start operations in early 2027, is designed to incinerate municipal waste and generate up to 240 million kWh annually—potentially supplying most of Samarkand city and parts of Pastdarg‘om. Officials say ash will be processed into construction feedstock and flue gases scrubbed with water drawn from the Darg‘om canal. The project follows a March 2025 presidential decision enabling electricity generation from incineration and sits alongside expanded recycling capacity led by private operators. The city is also piloting 70 electric and gasoline cargo scooters to collect waste in narrow streets, with plans to scale nationwide by 2030.

"These are not just factories; they are matters of life and death for us." - President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (gazeta.uz)

"By burning solid household waste, we can supply electricity to 70% of Samarkand’s population and 27% of Pastdarg‘om." - Bekzod Pashanov, regional head, Waste Management Agency (gazeta.uz)

"Since bringing in investment, any issues we faced have been resolved by your government; we have not encountered major problems so far." - Yu Zheng, construction director, Shanghai SUS Environment (gazeta.uz)

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Innovation

Licensing Portal Dispute Pits Higher Education Ministry Against Justice Ministry Over Private University Approvals

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s Higher Education Ministry said five private universities briefly received expanded licenses due to “unauthorized actions” in the state Licensing information system on 29 August, then labeled the approvals a technical error under review. The Justice Ministry publicly rejected that account, stating the portal “is operating in normal mode,” signaling an interagency rift over integrity of licensing decisions. The approvals touched distance learning, new degree tracks (including medicine and law), and additional campuses for University of Business and Science, Osiyo International University, University of Economics and Pedagogy, Sharq-University, and Profi University. The episode follows earlier licensing reversals, and a court recently sided against the ministry in a separate case involving Abu Rayhon Beruniy University, raising predictability concerns for private providers and applicants.

"The [Licensing] system is operating in normal mode." - Justice Ministry statement (gazeta.uz)

"This is not the first time such ‘technical error’ games have occurred in licensing." - Otabek Bakirov, economist and blogger (anhor.uz)

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Tashkent to Install AI-Enabled Cameras in 10th–11th Grade Classrooms, Linking Attendance to Smart School System

Published: 2025-08-30

Tashkent will equip all public school classrooms for grades 10–11 with dedicated cameras to monitor attendance and assess teaching and student engagement, according to a city administration directive. Data will feed into the Smart School electronic system, which was previously piloted in 31 schools across Olmazor district covering 250 classes. The decision also envisions AI-supported analysis of students’ psychological state and interest in subjects, as well as evaluation of teachers’ pedagogical capacity. Funding will come from district-level local budgets. The move signals a broader push to digitize school governance and standardize performance metrics, though it raises practical questions on data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and the scope of AI in educational settings. Implementation details, including data safeguards and oversight, have not been specified in the reports.

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AI-Powered ‘Digital Court’ Pilot, System Overhaul, and Infrastructure Upgrade Set for Uzbekistan’s Judiciary

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan is accelerating judicial reforms with a presidential decree dated August 21, 2025, mandating broad digitization and AI integration across courts. A “Digital Court” pilot in Tashkent will run through 2025, shifting filings and case handling to electronic formats, expanding remote participation, and auto-generating court costs and documents. AI tools will provide indicative outcomes and estimated expenses, while investigative bodies and courts will exchange data electronically, reducing duplicative requests through the national e-government platform. From 2026, district and city economic courts will be consolidated into inter-district courts at regional centers to streamline caseloads. Infrastructure plans through 2030 include building 162 new courthouses, reconstructing 82, and capital repairs for 93, outfitted with modern digital facilities. The decree aims to curb bureaucracy, shorten case timelines, and limit corruption by minimizing human factors and enhancing transparency.

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BYD Launches Locally Assembled Song Plus UzPride with Uzbek-Language Voice AI

Published: 2025-08-30

BYD unveiled the locally assembled Song Plus UzPride hybrid (DM-i) at its Jizzakh plant, marking the brand’s first localized model in Uzbekistan. The vehicle integrates 17 domestically produced components—such as bumpers, glass, seats, interior/exterior plastics, sound insulation, and plastic fuel tanks—and debuts what the company calls the world’s first Uzbek-language in-car voice assistant trained on 1.5 million speech samples to recognize dialects and adapt over time. Local assembly is intended to lower logistics costs and support supply-chain development through partners including Avtooyna, Uzdongyang, Uz-Koram-Co, and others. Pricing starts at 374.1 million soums (110 km EV range) and 396.6 million soums (150 km). Development took 14 months instead of a planned 36. BYD is evaluating the launch of Bao 5 and Bao 8 SUVs by late this year or early next year.

"This success is the result of joint work by Chinese and Uzbek engineers, contributing to the development of a new electric vehicle industry in the country." - Li Min, First Deputy Director of BYD Uzbekistan Factory (gazeta.uz)

"We developed a dedicated, full-featured AI assistant for users in Uzbekistan—an industry first for a car company." - Li Min, First Deputy Director of BYD Uzbekistan Factory (gazeta.uz)

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Talks Held on Potential Al Ain University Branch in Uzbekistan

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbek diplomats met with Nur Aldin Atatrex, vice chair of the UAE’s Al Ain University, to discuss opening a university branch in Uzbekistan, according to Kun.uz. While no formal agreement or timeline was reported, the engagement signals growing higher-education collaboration between Uzbekistan and Gulf institutions. A local branch could diversify the country’s international academic offerings, support English-language programs, and attract regional students, aligning with ongoing education reforms and labor-market needs. Such partnerships often include curriculum alignment, faculty exchange, and accreditation pathways, which would be critical for recognition in both jurisdictions. Further details—such as location, disciplines, and regulatory approvals—were not disclosed, suggesting the project remains at an exploratory stage. No official statements or commitments from either side were quoted in the report.

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Free Founders School Enrolls 1,000+ Students as Plan Targets 50,000 Trained Young Entrepreneurs by 2030

Published: 2025-08-30

Uzbekistan’s first free “founders school” has reached a key milestone, now educating more than 1,000 students, according to local outlet kun.uz. Authorities aim to train 50,000 youth in entrepreneurship by 2030, positioning the program as a pipeline for startup creation and SME growth. While specific curricula and delivery partners were not disclosed, the initiative signals continued policy emphasis on youth employment and private-sector development. For international observers, scaling to 50,000 trainees would require expanded mentorship networks, seed financing access, and regional rollout beyond Tashkent to ensure equity and impact. The early enrollment figure suggests demand for structured entrepreneurial training; success will hinge on integrating practical modules, market linkages, and post-training support to convert learning into viable businesses.

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