UzAutoMotors may impose restrictions on the entry of BYD electric vehicles into Uzbekistan

The Uzbekistan government received a plea from the BYD Uzbekistan Factory to curb the illicit import of electric cars citing concerns about their suitability for local climate and road conditions, as well as the absence of official warranties. This announcement came through the President's decision regarding the approval of the investment agreement for establishing electric and hybrid car production in Uzbekistan.

Consequently, the Ministries of Economy, Finance, Investments, Industry, Trade, and Uzavtosanoat have been tasked with presenting proposals to the Cabinet of Ministers by July 1 of this year regarding the regulation of BYD electric and hybrid car imports, with adherence to relevant legal frameworks including competition laws and World Trade Organization principles.

Furthermore, the decision outlines plans to incrementally ramp up the production capacity of electric and hybrid vehicles to 500,000 units annually.

As per the decision, negotiations will be held with the investor to address key aspects within the investment agreement:

- Gradually increasing the production capacity of electric and hybrid cars to 500,000 units yearly in subsequent phases of the investment project.
- Elevating the localization level of electric and hybrid vehicle production to 60% in the upcoming phases.
- Generating 10,000 new employment opportunities for local residents.
- Expanding the list of permanent export destinations for electric and hybrid cars, excluding those specified by the Joint Enterprise.
- Devising measures to safeguard consumer interests in acquiring high-quality and safe electric and hybrid vehicles, ensuring their compatibility with local climatic conditions, and providing assured service.
- Establishing equitable terms for all car manufacturing enterprises, including the Investor, concerning the allocation of privileges and preferences as per legislation.