Legal Framework for State Control in Mining and Geology: A Review of Updated Legislation Regulating Inspection Activities
2026-03-11 08:30:00 / News
This review analyzes the main regulatory acts defining control measures, permitting procedures, and the powers of the inspectorate.
Rule of Law: Mineral Resources and Licensing Procedures
The foundation of the inspectorate's activities rests directly on the self-executing laws of the Republic of Uzbekistan. In particular, Law No. 987 "On Subsoil," adopted on October 31, 2024, is the most important document in this regard. This law clearly defined the boundaries of state control in the geological study, use, and protection of mineral resources.
At the same time, Law No. 701 "On Licensing, Permitting, and Notification Procedures" dated July 14, 2021, ensures the transparency of the regulatory mechanisms applied by the inspectorate to business entities. These documents serve to prevent illegal activities in the industry and create a competitive environment for resource utilization.
Strategic Reforms: Presidential Decrees and Resolutions
Documents adopted by the Head of State are aimed at modernizing the inspectorate's activities and increasing management efficiency. Decree No. DP-79 of May 24, 2024, introduced a completely new system of state management and control in the fields of subsoil use, industrial, radiation, and nuclear safety.
In order to ensure the implementation of this system, Resolution No. RP-187 was adopted, defining the organizational and legal framework for the effective organization of the Inspectorate's activities. Additionally, Resolutions No. RP-4078, RP-3578, and RP-3286 focus on increasing the efficiency of using subsoil plots containing non-metallic minerals, transforming the activities of the geology committee, and strengthening the protection system for water bodies. This set of documents assigns the control body tasks not only for inspection but also for the strategic development of the sector.
Implementation Mechanism: Cabinet of Ministers Resolutions
Government resolutions include specific mechanisms ensuring the implementation of the aforementioned laws and decrees. Government Resolution No. 131 of February 28, 2025, is a key document defining the latest stages of organizing the inspectorate's activities.
Furthermore, resolutions adopted on increasing the efficiency of natural resource use (RCM-720), the management system in geological study (RCM-983), and the procedure for using groundwater (RCM-9, RCM-430, RCM-981) serve as the main guidelines in the inspectorate's daily work. Resolution No. 133 on improving the procedure for issuing permits for the right to use subsoil plots serves as a pillar for reducing corruption risks and digitizing processes.
Analytical Conclusion
The systematic formation of the regulatory framework allows the Inspectorate for Control in the Field of Mining and Geology to achieve effective results in several directions. Firstly, strengthening the legal basis of the control system contributes to increased state budget revenues and stops the looting of natural resources. Secondly, clear regulation of licensing and permitting processes enhances the investment attractiveness of the sector.
In conclusion, this collection of legal acts guarantees the use of mineral wealth for the benefit of future generations and serves as the primary factor in ensuring safety and discipline in the industry.