Uzbekistan discusses the balance between supporting business and strengthening oversight

At a round table with the participation of deputies, the business ombudsman, ministries, tax and customs authorities, entrepreneurs and activists discussed conditions for business, fines, tax administration and the effectiveness of bans. A separate topic was the illegal sale of electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches, including to minors.

Otabek YusupovFirst published on tafs uz 30 October 2026 at 18:102 min read

The key facts

The discussion covered administrative restrictions, the justification of fines, the accountability of officials and tax administration
Entrepreneurs called for taking into account the interests of buyers, including foreign tourists, and the difficulties with cashless payments
Public activists stated that electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches are being sold illegally through small outlets and online platforms

Round table on balancing business interests and oversight

A round table was held in Uzbekistan devoted to how well the current rules strike a balance between the interests of business, consumers and the market. According to Kun.uz, the discussion involved deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, the business ombudsman, relevant ministries, tax and customs authorities, as well as representatives of the business community and the public.

Conditions for business and oversight issues

Participants examined the conditions created for entrepreneurship, administrative restrictions and cooperation between business and the state. The focus was on financial support, the justification of fines, the accountability of officials, tax administration and the stability of the legal environment for investors.

Problems faced by retail outlets

Separately, the discussion covered the difficulties retail businesses face in complying with legislation, including the procedure for cashless payments. Entrepreneurs called for taking into account the real conditions of trade and the interests of buyers, including foreign tourists.

Bans and the shadow economy

One of the key questions was the effectiveness of existing bans in combating the shadow economy. According to Kun.uz, one public activist spoke about the illegal sale of a number of goods that are banned or restricted in circulation, citing electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches as an example: according to him, these products reach buyers through unofficial channels.

Sales without age verification and from opened packs

The activist noted that observations and journalistic investigations point to the possibility of such products being sold through small retail outlets and online platforms. Of particular concern, he said, are reports of sales without age verification of buyers and the sale of individual items from opened packs. Participants emphasized that protecting minors and restricting access to goods potentially harmful to health must remain a priority of state regulation. At the same time, the publication notes that if this information is confirmed, it may point to violations that increase risks for buyers and make it difficult to determine the origin and quality of the products.