World Bank urges Uzbekistan to limit monopolies and remove personal data localization requirement to boost service sector
The growth of Uzbekistan’s vital service sector slowed, the World Bank’s report said. It recommends enhancing the country’s connectivity to global markets by reducing monopolies in telecommunications, aviation and railways, easing personal data localization requirements and promoting ICT training.
Photos: Cat houses appear at Tashkent airport
Cat houses were installed in the Tashkent International Airport, providing shelter for stray cats. Uzbekistan Airports noted that cats have always been a part of the capital’s airport, and the project reflects the company’s and its employees' care for animals.
Paynet privatizes Humo payment system for $65 million
The state-owned share of Humo, one of Uzbekistan’s two bank card processing systems, was sold for $65 million to Paynet, a major payment operator (which was privatized in 2022).
Media: Salim Abduvaliyev released from prison
Salim Abduvaliyev, a 74-year-old businessman and sports official, who was sentenced to 6 years last March on charges of illegal trafficking of firearms, was released due to health issues, media reported.
Emergency department official in Namangan region detained while receiving $160,000
The head of the Pap district emergency department in Namangan region was detained while receiving $160,000 in cash.
Import of electric and hybrid cars in Uzbekistan surpasses gasoline vehicles for the first time
In 2024, the volume of imported electric and hybrid vehicles in Uzbekistan surpassed gasoline cars for the first time. The average price of an imported electric car decreased almost three times.
Uzbekistan may ban plastic bags starting in 2027
Uzbekistan plans to ban the production, import and use of plastic bags starting in 2027, according to a draft state program. Manufacturers and importers of goods in plastic packaging may be required to establish collection and recycling points.
President of Uzbekistan to pay official visit to UAE
President of Uzbekistan will pay an official visit to the UAE from 13 to 16 January. He will meet with the country’s leadership, take part in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week summit and visit Dubai.
Two people die under snow mass on Kamchik pass
A man attempting to take a selfie on restricted territory at Kamchik pass fell into a snowdrift, prompting his companion to try to help. Both became trapped under a snow mass and lost their lives.
Uzbekistan plans to strengthen cooperation with new US administration
Uzbekistan plans to foster close ties with the new US administration and arrange a high-level visit, according to the draft state program for 2025. The country is also exploring enhanced security cooperation with the United States.
Sale of AI-80 gasoline may be restricted until end of 2025
A draft decree of the president proposes restricting the sale and use of car fuels below the Euro-4 standard until the end of 2025. The previous target to phase out AI-80 was set for 2028. The proposal also includes banning the use of mazut as fuel in thermal power plants.
Uzbekistan may open consulate general in Canada
Uzbekistan is considering opening a consulate general in Canada, according to the draft state program for 2025. The plan also includes strengthening ties with Brazil, Argentina and other countries in the Americas.
Total ban on electronic cigarettes (vapes) may be introduced in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan’s Legislative Chamber passed a draft law in its first reading to impose a complete ban on e-cigarettes (vapes), citing rising usage among youth and lack of research on health risks associated with their consumption.
List of online materials designated as extremist expanded in Uzbekistan
The list of content classified as promoting extremism and terrorism in Uzbekistan was updated. It now includes nearly 1,400 sources and materials — almost double the figure included in the previous version published one year ago.
Prime ministers of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan hold meeting on border issues
Heads of governments of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan met at tri-border area of the states to discuss shared border sections. They expressed confidence that the meeting would “shape the fate of the region for decades, fostering the prosperity of its peoples and nations”.
Man arrested for 5 days for harassing flight attendant on Sochi-Tashkent flight
A 39-year-old man was given five days of arrest for sexually harassing a flight attendant on a Sochi-Tashkent flight. He denied the allegations, but promised that such behavior would not happen again.
President of Uzbekistan sends condolences to president of China following earthquake in Tibet
President of Uzbekistan sent condolences to president of China over the numerous deaths and injuries caused by a powerful earthquake in Tibet.
Boxer Shakhram Giyasov apologizes for “sparring” with a bear
Boxer Shakhram Giyasov was fined 3 base calculation units for “wrestling” with a bear in a gym (for animal cruelty). After meeting with the Ministry of Ecology, he admitted his mistake and pledged it wouldn’t happen again. The bear was bought by Buka Gym and donated to Fergana zoo.
Citizen of Uzbekistan fighting for Russia against Ukraine admits to killing over 10 Ukrainian soldiers
A court in Uzbekistan sentenced a 39-year-old man to 4 years and 2 months of restricted freedom for participating in the war in Ukraine on Russia’s side. The defendant admitted to killing over 10 Ukrainian soldiers during the conflict. The sentence was reduced, partly due to his voluntary surrender.
President of Uzbekistan takes a short leave
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev went on a short-term leave from 6 January.
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