Uzbekistan to gradually restrict phonogram use at concerts

Uzbekistan will gradually restrict the use of phonograms at concert and entertainment events. This is outlined in the government resolution “On Additional Measures to Further Encourage Live Performance in Concert and Entertainment Activities,” adopted on April 8.

According to the resolution, starting May 1, 2025:

- The use of phonograms will be gradually limited at all concert and entertainment events funded by the state budget and extra-budgetary funds.
- Advertisements for concert and entertainment events must clearly specify whether the performance is "Live performance," "Live voice using phonograms," or "Concert program with phonograms."
- When recommending artists for state awards, such as “People's Artist of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” “Honored Artist of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” and “People's Commissar of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” the Ministry of Culture will prioritize artists' ability to perform live.

Starting July 1, 2025:

- Event organizers will receive a 30% discount for broadcasting advertisements of live concert-performance events on TV and radio channels of the National Television and Radio Broadcasting System of Uzbekistan.
- Concert-performance events featuring live performances with partial phonogram use will be broadcast free of charge on TV and radio channels of the National Television and Radio Broadcasting System of Uzbekistan, based on a positive conclusion from the Artistic Council of the relevant channel.

Additionally, a “Live Performance Week” will be held every quarter in all regions of the country.