Uzbekistan introduces “first chance” rule for new entrepreneurs

A new “first chance” principle is being introduced for individuals who are just starting their entrepreneurial journey. Under this policy, entrepreneurs who commit an administrative offense for the first time will be exempted from liability and given the opportunity to correct their mistakes. This announcement was made on March 19 during a meeting between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, where discussions focused on strengthening the sector’s role in the economy and advancing its development.  

The meeting underscored the importance of supporting new entrepreneurs, particularly during their first year of operation, to help them establish a stable foundation for their businesses.  

For instance, over the past three years, 17,500 enterprises have been liquidated within a year of their establishment. Officials from Samarkand, Kashkadarya, Khorezm, and Jizzakh regions were specifically noted for their insufficient efforts in supporting new businesses.  

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"From now on, the principle of ‘first chance’ will be introduced for those who have just started entrepreneurship. That means an entrepreneur who commits an administrative offense for the first time will be exempted from liability and given the opportunity to correct the shortcomings.  

In short, newly established businesses will be ‘insured from liability’ for their first mistake," President Mirziyoyev stated.  

Additionally, it was announced that all state agencies in 15 districts and cities of Uzbekistan will be relocated to a single multi-story building in each district center. As a result, 150 buildings previously occupied by state agencies in these districts will be auctioned off to entrepreneurs.