City officials clarify: Kuylyk market is being renovated, not closed

Recent reports circulating on social media have claimed that the Kuylyk market in Tashkent is being completely demolished. In response, the city administration has issued an official statement clarifying the situation.

According to the statement, the market was temporarily suspended earlier to allow for the preparation of alternative trading areas. Since then, part of the market has been restored and brought back into operation.

“At present, the market has been brought into a more orderly state. Spaces have been allocated for entrepreneurs, and redevelopment work is actively continuing. Importantly, trading activities have not been suspended,” the statement said.

Authorities emphasized that the market is not being closed. Instead, its operations are being optimized, with a focus on restoring order, improving sanitary conditions, upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing overall security.

The statement also noted that a digital system will be introduced in the near future to ensure transparency in tax payments. This is expected to reduce the impact of the shadow economy on the market's operations.

The administration acknowledged that prior to the renovations, the market area had faced numerous challenges, including a heightened risk of criminal activity, small fires due to outdated utility systems, poor sanitary conditions, and uncontrolled trading practices that affected public safety and convenience.

“These issues could not be overlooked. A systematic decision was made to modernize the market in line with international standards and urban development practices,” the statement noted.