Inspection for control in the field of mining industry and geology under the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology of the Republic of Uzbekistan

As a result of reforms over the past five years, the authority to allocate land was transferred from local municipalities to an online auction system. During this period, 616,300 hectares of land were allocated, generating 1.4 trillion UZS for the budget. Most importantly, the emergence of genuine landholders has led to a three-fold increase in income per hectare, reaching 50-60 million UZS. Currently, these lands produce 539 trillion UZS worth of products annually, with exports totaling $2.1 billion.

However, it was noted that the independence of tenants in managing their land remains insufficient. Consequently, an additional 100,000 hectares are planned for auction this year under a new system that grants entrepreneurs the right to independently select high-yield crops. For industrial plantations and livestock projects, plots ranging from 50 to 500 hectares will be offered. The government will cover water and electricity infrastructure costs for these projects and provide low-interest loans for up to 7 years, including a 3-year grace period.

The procedure for leasing land to foreign investors is being revised. Lands will now be provided exclusively through directorates under regional administrations for investment projects valued at no less than $10 million. These will be issued on a sub-lease basis with the requirement to reclaim pastures and unused lands. Crucially, participation in agricultural land auctions will be restricted to local farmers and entrepreneurs. Lands of strategic importance, including defense, border, and historical-cultural sites, will be granted solely to citizens of Uzbekistan.

To reduce bureaucracy, the lease extension process will be fully digitized. Entrepreneurs can now apply through Public Service Centers and electronic platforms. In the absence of tax debts or legal violations, lease terms will be automatically extended up to 30 years for agricultural land and 49 years for non-agricultural land. Additionally, land lease rights can now be used as collateral for loans, leasing, and mortgages.

Land oversight and accountability are also being strengthened. Penalties for illegal land seizure will now apply to all types of land plots. Simultaneously, the process for changing land categories for infrastructure projects will be simplified, including exemptions from loss-compensation payments and tax-free status for compensation payments.

These reforms are designed to ensure the sanctity of land property rights and boost agricultural productivity. By minimizing the human factor through digitalization, the government aims to prevent corruption and build investor confidence. This remains a cornerstone for the country's economic stability and food security.