Uzbekistan to cancel exclusive rights of several business entities

From April 1, 2025, the exclusive rights of several business entities in their respective sectors will be revoked. This measure is outlined in the Presidential Decree “On Measures to Develop Competition in the Economy and Further Increase the Role of the Private Sector,” adopted on February 28.  

The business entities affected by the cancellation of exclusive rights include:  

- "Uzbekexpertiza" JSC and its territorial divisions – previously responsible for issuing certificates for property imported by enterprises with foreign investment for production needs.  
- The "UzEngineering" design institute – which handled the development of pre-design and project documentation for investment projects.  
- Entities providing production and advertising services for foreign companies promoting Uzbekistan’s tourism potential, as well as preparing and broadcasting advertisements, reports, and other media content on foreign television, radio, and other outlets.  
- LLC "Sag Agro MTP" – which provided mechanization services for implementing agrotechnical measures for walnut producers.  
- The State Institution Institute of Standards of Uzbekistan – which handled the translation of national standards into other languages on a contractual basis.  

Additionally, the State Enterprise Center for Certification of Tourism Services will transfer its responsibilities to the Tourism Committee. These include certifying tour operators, accommodation facilities, ski slopes, and beach services, assigning categories, and conducting inspection controls to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.  

According to the decree, exclusive rights previously granted to individual business entities and state organizations, regardless of ownership form, will be eliminated if they were based on:  

- Special permissions or rights granted by legislative acts as an exception.  
- Individual licenses or permits issued outside the general licensing process.  

However, licenses and permits issued through a competitive tender process will not be considered exclusive rights.  

From April 1, 2025, exclusive rights may only be granted to economic entities through laws, presidential decrees, or resolutions, and for a period not exceeding three years. Such rights will be permitted only for the following purposes:  

- Ensuring the constitutional order, public health, Uzbekistan’s defense capability, state and public security, and public order.  
- Preventing and eliminating natural disasters, catastrophes, and epidemics.  

This reform is part of Uzbekistan’s broader efforts to enhance market competition and expand private sector participation in the economy.