Uzbekistan implements new reform package to simplify business and modernize the licensing system
2025-11-23 17:35:00 / News
On November 14, 2025, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan signed a Decree (https://lex.uz/docs/-7840557), introducing the next phase of administrative reforms aimed at simplifying business operations, reducing bureaucratic procedures, and increasing transparency in government regulation. The decree is expected to cut business administrative costs by up to 90 billion sums and save entrepreneurs up to 15 days when interacting with state agencies.
Fast business launch: “Start a business in 15 minutes” system
From January 1, 2026, Uzbekistan will introduce a unified digital platform for comprehensive business registration. Entrepreneurs will be able to access key services through a single window:
1) issuance of an electronic digital signature;
2) opening and activation of a bank account;
3) submission of license and permit applications;
4) digital execution of lease agreements;
5) online registration of cash registers;
6) automatic issuance of VAT payer certificates;
7) registration of the company’s director in the Unified National Labor System.
All services are available at the entrepreneur’s discretion, with payments processed via a single QR code.
Automatic data updates without applicant involvement
From January 1, 2026, any changes in entrepreneur’s or company information — including name, address, company name, or legal form — will be automatically and freely updated across all licenses, permits, and notifications via interagency electronic data exchange. Personal data updates will be sourced from the Ministry of Internal Affairs ID card system.
Simplifying licensing and permit procedures
From March 1, 2026, important improvements will be introduced to streamline licensing:
1) dual administrative liability will be abolished: fines for violations will apply only to the organization, without separate penalties for responsible individuals;
2) a voluntary pre-licensing assessment (pre-licensing audit) will be introduced in the “License” system allowing companies to verify compliance of their premises, equipment, staffing, and etc with licensing requirements in advance. The assessments will be issued within 20 days at a cost not exceeding the main license fee.
Integration of government digital systems
By December 2025, Uzbekistan will integrate key government information systems—including business registration, the “License” platform, national electronic archives, and the national ID database—enabling seamless data exchange and eliminating duplicate procedures. Information about the appointed company directors will automatically be transmitted to the Unified National Labor System.
These measures create a more predictable, transparent, and efficient regulatory environment, reducing administrative costs and project launch timelines. Faster business registration, fully digitalized government services, and a modernized licensing system will allow investors to enter the market more quickly, reduce operational risks, and implement long-term projects in a stable regulatory framework. By cutting bureaucracy and expanding digital tools, Uzbekistan continues to strengthen its position as an open, business-oriented economy