On March 5, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired an expanded meeting to assess the progress in combating corruption and outline future measures. The discussion focused on strengthening transparency, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies, and reinforcing legal mechanisms.
At the start of the meeting, President Mirziyoyev highlighted the need for a comprehensive evaluation of efforts to create a corruption-free environment.
“The biggest obstacle and stumbling block to reforms is corruption. This is fully confirmed by world experience,” he said.
Strengthening anti-corruption framework
Uzbekistan has implemented a structured system to address corruption. Separate laws have been enacted, and key institutions such as a national anti-corruption council and a dedicated agency have been established. The role of the media in exposing corruption has also expanded significantly.
“I say again and again: we will always be determined to implement the policy of openness, the ideas of freedom of speech!” the President stated.
He noted that international ratings on transparency have improved. Uzbekistan has climbed 138 positions and now ranks first in Central Asia and 30th globally in openness indicators.
Digitisation and reduction of bureaucracy
Key reforms include digitalisation initiatives aimed at minimising human involvement in bureaucratic processes. The transition to an auction-based land allocation system has reduced corruption risks in property transactions. The construction sector has also seen improvements following the introduction of the transparent construction programme.
Over the past four years, digitalisation in the construction industry has saved UZS 3.6 trillion (approximately $285 mn). Additionally, last year, UZS 14 trillion (approximately $1.1 bn) were saved through public procurement reforms and competitive tendering.
The financial sector has also undergone transformation. Previously, obtaining a bank loan was a complex process, but today, home loans of up toUZS 100 mn (approximately $7,900) are issued online within minutes. University admissions, traffic enforcement, and licensing systems have also shifted towards digital solutions, significantly reducing corruption risks.
Impact on business and foreign investment
Regulatory reforms have enhanced the business environment. The cancellation of 120 types of documents and more than 160 licences has facilitated the entry of 200,000 new entrepreneurs into the market. The number of businesses with foreign participation has increased fivefold, reaching 23,000.
“For the past 25 years, these concepts were foreign to us. They were taken for granted. None of this happened by itself. We achieved everything through hard work,” the President noted.
He further highlighted that over the past seven years, foreign investments in Uzbekistan have exceeded $120 bn, and the national economy has doubled, reaching $115 bn last year.
The meeting underscored Uzbekistan’s commitment to maintaining transparency and advancing reforms to foster economic growth and attract international investment.
