Mirziyoyev announces average 2-fold cut in business fines in Uzbekistan
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Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced on August 18 that fines for entrepreneurs will be reduced by an average of 2 times. The move aims to shift penalties from revenue collection to discipline and prevention. The announcement came during a meeting with business representatives.
Key Facts
- President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced the fine reduction during a meeting with entrepreneurs on August 18, 2026.
- Currently, 51 state agencies have the authority to impose financial fines.
- Starting next year, the 'Presumption of Entrepreneur's Innocence' will apply in disputes between entrepreneurs and the state.
- The 'Warning for First Offense' rule will give first-time violators 10 days to correct shortcomings if no harm to life, health, or property occurred.
- The Expert Council under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry will gain authority to review disputes in customs, construction, sanitation, quarantine, and veterinary sectors.
Fine Reduction Announcement
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced that all types of fines for entrepreneurs will be reduced by an average of 2 times. The announcement was made during a dialogue with business representatives on August 18, 2026. Mirziyoyev criticized the practice where some agencies retain a portion of fine revenues, creating a 'if they check, they fear; if they fear, they pay' approach. He stated that fines should serve discipline and prevention in the sector, not fund collection.
Entrepreneur Protection Measures
Starting next year, the 'Presumption of Entrepreneur's Innocence' will be introduced in disputes between entrepreneurs and the state. Under this principle, an entrepreneur is considered innocent until guilt is proven in court, and no fine or other enforcement measure may be applied before that. The 'Warning for First Offense' rule will also be introduced. A first-time violator who has not caused harm to people's life, health, or property will be given 10 days to eliminate the shortcoming. Control agencies will pay state duty at every court stage after the first instance.
Dispute Resolution Expansion
The Expert Council under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be authorized to review disputes in customs, construction, sanitation, quarantine, and veterinary sectors. The return of entrepreneurs' advance payments for goods purchased by state enterprises will be automated.
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Mirziyoyev announces average 2-fold cut in business fines in Uzbekistan
