BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 18. Uzbekistan is
rolling out a new package of measures to ease access to financing,
unlock state assets and accelerate industrial localization as part
of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s broader push to expand
opportunities for entrepreneurs.


This was reflected in the statement on the Official channel of
the Press Secretary of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan,
following an open dialogue with the country’s business community in
Khorezm region.


One of the key measures is the introduction of a
counter-guarantee system designed to address collateral shortages
faced by small businesses. Under the new mechanism, for loans of up
to 10 billion soums (about $842,817), the state will cover 30% of
the required collateral, the Business Guarantee Company another 30%
and banks 15%, leaving entrepreneurs responsible for just 25%.


The government has also launched a “Virtual Tax Adviser” powered
by artificial intelligence to help businesses reduce costs and
avoid tax-related errors. Starting next year, similar AI assistants
will be introduced in construction, labor relations, foreign trade
and public services.


A second priority is expanding business opportunities in the
regions by putting unused land and inefficiently used state assets
into productive economic activity.


Under the new rules, the down payment required to purchase state
assets will fall from 30% to 15%. Buyers who complete payment
within six months will receive a 25% discount, while entrepreneurs
who pay half of the purchase price will be allowed to pay the
remainder over seven years without interest.


The starting price of state property that remains unsold for
three months will gradually be reduced by up to 10%, while auction
periods will be cut in half.







Land sold at auction will also be offered with construction
permits, architectural planning documents and project documentation
already prepared, allowing buyers to begin construction
immediately. The advance infrastructure fee will be reduced from
20% to 5%.


Banks will also be permitted to sell 2,500 properties worth 9
trillion soums (around $758.5 million) at discounted prices, with
no initial payment and interest-free installment plans.
Entrepreneurs purchasing these assets will be exempt from land and
property taxes for one year.


The government has also identified 50 priority products for
localization and plans to establish “bond industrial zones” in
parts of special economic zones in Navoi, Jizzakh, Namangan, Urgut
and Hazorasp.


Companies operating in these zones will be exempt from taxes and
customs duties on imported raw materials and components. If the
localization level exceeds 30%-40%, businesses will also receive
preferential conditions when selling their products in the domestic
market.


The zones will bring together R&D centers, laboratories,
engineering and technology services in an integrated system. The
government plans to allocate $50 million to provide entrepreneurs
with ready-to-use buildings equipped with infrastructure.