Procedures for Licensing and Issuing Permits for Subsoil Use Have Been Simplified
2026-08-06 14:55:00 / News
Comprehensive measures are being implemented in our country to create a favorable investment climate in the field of subsoil use and geological exploration, as well as to eliminate bureaucratic barriers. Decree of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated March 25, 2022, No. 133 establishes new and transparent mechanisms for issuing permits for the right to use subsoil plots.
As a result of the reforms, numerous redundant procedures in the field of subsoil use were abolished and consolidated. In particular, the requirement to obtain guarantee letters from local government authorities when applying for a license was eliminated, and separate approval processes for design and estimate documentation were merged into the conclusion of the state expertise.
According to the new regulation, old-format licenses granting the right to use subsoil plots containing metallic and non-metallic minerals were converted into "permits." The procedures have been fully digitized and implemented via the "E-auksion" platform, the "Litsenziya" information system, and the Single Portal of Interactive Public Services. Previously issued old-format licenses were replaced with new ones and are considered invalid as of July 31, 2025.
Clear boundaries and obligations have been established in the system regarding state control and legality. The state institution "Center for Subsoil Use" under the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology, along with the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, act as the competent authorities in subsoil management. Entities engaged in the extraction of non-metallic minerals are obliged to install truck scales at mining sites to measure weight parameters and comply with transport load regulations.
Annual license fees for subsoil use for geological exploration are calculated based on each hectare of the allocated land area. Fee rates are set at 10 percent of the base calculation amount for main minerals (hydrocarbons, precious, and rare metals) and 15 percent of the base calculation amount for non-metallic minerals. Business entities are required to submit quarterly reports on extraction volumes.
The implementation of digital technologies in the activities of state control bodies ensures transparency and prevents illegal practices. Transitioning these processes to electronic platforms serves to significantly reduce human factors and corruption risks in the sector.
These reforms guarantee the rational utilization of subsoil resources owned by the state and establish a firm legal foundation for increasing private and foreign investment inflows.