National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

For reference: The seminar was organized within the framework of the ongoing transformation of Uzbekistan’s environmental policy. According to Presidential Decree No. 81 dated May 31, 2023, a new institutional structure — the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change — was established. This ministry is tasked with implementing a unified state policy in environmental protection, climate change mitigation and sustainable development.

Additionally, in line with Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 20 dated January 20, 2025, a system of voluntary environmental labeling for products and services is being introduced. This initiative aims to enhance environmental responsibility among business entities and to create competitive advantages for domestic producers in international markets.

The seminar addressed key aspects of environmental regulation, including current legislative requirements, business risks and liability, as well as opportunities and incentives available to green entrepreneurs — such as tax benefits, export incentives, access to financing and alignment with international standards in the context of voluntary ecolabeling. Participants also explored available financial mechanisms supporting environmental transformation at both the national and international levels.

Highlights of the seminar included:

– A visit and keynote address by Mr. K. S. Venkatagiri, Chair of the Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN), focused on international practices in environmental certification;
– The signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the State Centre for Environmental Certification and Standardization of Uzbekistan and the Global Ecolabelling Network;
– A presentation of an analytical report on the current state and potential of Uzbekistan’s green product market, prepared with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP);
– A panel discussion with representatives of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) on financing sustainable and green initiatives.

Key outcomes of the event:

– Strengthened international cooperation in environmental certification and labeling;
– Initiated harmonization of the national ecolabeling system with international standards;
– Increased awareness among the business community, with more than 50 private sector representatives gaining up-to-date information on the opportunities and requirements of environmental certification;
– Established a communication platform for ongoing dialogue among government agencies, the private sector, and international partners;
– Expressed interest from international financial institutions in supporting green projects in the Republic of Uzbekistan.