Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan's cotton harvest in 2024 is approaching historically high levels, reflecting positive outcomes from ongoing agricultural reforms in the country. According to state statistics, the cotton yield this season is expected to exceed 3.5 million tons, an 8% increase compared to last year. This growth has been primarily driven by the adoption of modern irrigation technologies and efficient management of cotton fields.

The government of Uzbekistan has approved a procedure for providing mortgage loans to specialists who have obtained academic degrees from prestigious foreign higher education institutions, as per a decision confirmed on April 9. This news was reported by the Telegram channel “Legal Information.” The loan is intended for purchasing housing on the primary real estate market within the country, with amounts up to 2150 times the base calculation value (BCV), a term of 10 years, and monthly repayment conditions. Provided by commercial banks at an annual interest rate of 14%, the loan aims to attract highly qualified personnel and address their housing needs.

Saodat Usmonova, the director of State Preschool Educational Institution No. 11 in Tashkent District, has been fully acquitted by the Supreme Court of Uzbekistan on all charges. The publication Kun.uz, after reviewing court documents, provided detailed coverage of this case.

During raids conducted by the State Environmental Control Inspectorate (Ecopolice) in the Tashkent region, serious environmental violations were uncovered at the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Combine (AGMK). The investigation revealed that the enterprise illegally stored hazardous production waste in open areas, negatively impacting soil and groundwater.

Uzbekistan's cotton harvest in 2024 reached 3.5 million tons, marking an 8% increase compared to the previous year. According to the State Statistics Committee, this figure reflects the steady development of the country's agricultural sector.

Uzbekistan's Hydrometeorological Service (Uzgidromet) has issued a warning about potential mudslides and floods in the country's mountainous and foothill areas from April 10 to 12 due to heavy rainfall. The alert covers numerous districts in the Kashkadarya, Surkhandarya, Samarkand, Navoi, Jizzakh, Tashkent, Namangan, Fergana, and Andijan regions, as well as the cities of Angren, Almalyk, and Khanabad.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan made significant statements regarding the country's economic development, new industrial projects, and attracting foreign investment. According to him, the state leadership is implementing comprehensive measures to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.

The National Investment Fund of Uzbekistan (UzNIF) has announced its intention to conduct an initial public offering (IPO), with plans to list its ordinary shares on the Republican Stock Exchange "Tashkent" and its global depositary receipts (GDRs) on the main market of the London Stock Exchange. This move aims to enhance the fund's accessibility to international and domestic investors, though it comes amid global economic uncertainties that could impact investor appetite for emerging market offerings.

Uzbekistan, Tashkent – Sokh District is set for a large-scale economic reintegration in the coming years, aimed at transforming the exclave into a modern tourism and agricultural center. During a presentation of socio-economic development plans to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, it was reported that the region intends to attract over $100 million in total investments, which will create thousands of new jobs and lift remaining families out of poverty.

A traditional bread from Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan – the “Chimbay Zagara-Non” – has been officially registered as a geographical indication. This decision solidifies its authenticity, provides legal protection, and strengthens the region’s gastronomic brand.

Uzbekistan will implement a new mechanism for marketplaces through a system of bonded warehouses on an experimental basis from 2026 to 2028, allowing customs duties to be paid only when goods are actually sold to consumers. This measure, presented to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, aims to attract at least $500 million in investment and increase the share of e-commerce in the country’s retail turnover to 11 %.

Uzbekistan has announced the establishment of a Non-Olympic Sports Confederation, a proposal approved by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on April 7. The decision is linked to growing interest in sports not included in the Olympic Games. According to meeting data, over 100,000 young people today regularly engage in non-Olympic sports, which serve as a reserve for Olympic disciplines such as judo, wrestling, taekwondo, fencing, and weightlifting.