News

A dangerous new class of synthetic opioids, nitazenes,is spreading rapidly across the globe. Developed initially as painkillers in the 1950s, nitazenes were never approved for medical use due to their extreme potency. Today, they’re being used as illicit narcotics, often mixed into other substances without users’ knowledge, leading to a wave of overdoses and deaths, as reported by Meduza.

Nitazenes: The New Drug Deadlier Than Heroin or Fentanyl

Nitazenes were first synthesised by Swiss pharmaceutical company Ciba (now Novartis) in the 1950s. Although intended as pain relievers, their medical use was halted early on due to their extreme...

Uzbekistan’s Competition Committee has taken action against YandexGo UB LLC following a complaint from Uzum Market LLC, accusing YandexGo of unfair competition through a misleading advertisement for Yandex Market.

The committee launched an investigation after Uzum Market reported that the Yandex Market commercial, aired on television and social media, appeared to copy elements from Uzum’s previous videos. The case was reviewed by the Special Commission of the Competition Committee.

According to the findings:

A plane carrying Jennifer Lopez’s full tour team landed at Tashkent International Airport, according to the Telegram channel Tashkent Sky News.

The flight reportedly carried up to 90 people, including musicians, dancers, security staff and logistics personnel, all part of the support crew for the American pop icon’s upcoming concert.

Lopez is scheduled to perform on Thursday, August 7, at Milliy Stadium (formerly Bunyodkor Stadium) in the Uzbek capital. Around 25,000 tickets are being made available for the event, and as of mid-July, 40% of them had already been sold to international visitors.

The Art and Culture Development Foundation

By August 5, 2025, Uzbekistan’s Tax Committee reported that cafés, restaurants, hotels, tour operators and livestock farms had received a total of 33 bn sums ($2.6 mln) in VAT refunds through targeted government support schemes.

A VAT cashback programme for cafés and restaurants has been in effect since January 1, 2025. So far this year, it has benefited over 500 establishments, allowing them to recover 24.6 bn sums ($1.96 mln) in VAT.

A similar programme for hotels and tour operators was launched earlier, on October 10, 2024. Since then, 33 tour companies have received 1.3 bn sums ($103,793) in...

For the first time, Uzbekistan’s Centre for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) has applied NASA night-time light (NTL) satellite data to assess economic activity at both regional and city levels. The analysis, powered by AI-based modelling, marks a significant step in modernising how economic trends are tracked across the country.

This approach, widely used in international research, offers an independent and timely way to monitor living standards and measure local development, especially in places where traditional data collection is limited or delayed.

The findings show a strong alignment between satellite data and official statistics. From 2020 to 2024, GDP...

A delegation from Uzbekistan’s Uzatom Agency visited Belarus on August 5–6, to learn from the country’s successful experience in constructing and operating its first nuclear power plant (NPP). The visit was carried out on the instruction of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev as part of preparations for Uzbekistan’s own NPP project.

On August 5, the delegation met with Belarusian Minister of Energy Denis Moroz to discuss key areas of cooperation in the nuclear energy sector. Talks focused on integrating large-scale NPPs into national power systems, sharing experience on nuclear security infrastructure, spent fuel and radioactive waste management, and public engagement during...

July, typically the hottest month of summer, once again lived up to its reputation in Uzbekistan. This year, average temperatures across the country were 1–3°C above the long-term climate norm.

In most regions, apart from the north-west, July 2025 ranked among the top three hottest Julys ever recorded. In some areas, it became the hottest since the beginning of meteorological observations.

Throughout the month, daytime temperatures consistently exceeded average levels, often reaching 38–41°C, and in the hottest periods climbing to 42–44°C. In southern and desert areas, highs of 45–48°C were recorded.

Several locations set new temperature records or matched...

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank was the world’s top gold buyer in June 2025, acquiring nine tonnes, according to the World Gold Council.

This marked a sharp reversal from previous months, when the regulator sold one tonne in May and 11 tonnes each in April and March.

Kazakhstan followed with a seven-tonne purchase, while Turkey, China and the Czech Republic each bought two tonnes. Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines and Qatar added one tonne apiece.

Singapore was the largest seller for the second month in a row, offloading five tonnes in June.

Globally, central banks purchased a total of 22 tonnes of gold...

Dry and hot weather is expected across Uzbekistan during the day on August 6. No rainfall is forecast nationwide, and winds will blow at 7 to 12 m/s. Daytime temperatures will range from 33°C to 38°C.

In the capital, Tashkent, conditions will remain dry with light winds at 3 to 8 m/s. Temperatures in the city are expected to reach between 35°C and 37°C.

Mountainous regions will also remain mostly dry. However, isolated areas in the Fergana Valley’s highlands may experience brief showers or thunderstorms. Winds in these areas may reach 7 to 12 m/s, with occasional gusts up...

Several banks have updated their rates for exchanging foreign currencies into UZS as of August 6. This article contains information about the most favourable rates.

Here are Central Bank Reference Rates to exchange USD, EUR, GBP, CHF, JPY, or KZT into soums:

Several banks offer the best rates to exchange USD, EUR, GBP, CHF, JPY, or KZT into soums:

Financial institutions may change the value...

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), in collaboration with the Association of Young Architects of Uzbekistan, has announced the launch of the National Green Building Design Competition.

The competition features two categories: one for students and one for professionals. Participants are required to design a green building — either a new development or a renovation of an existing structure.

Entries must reflect the climatic conditions of Uzbekistan and incorporate modern, sustainable technologies. The use of local materials is encouraged to help reduce costs and minimize environmental impact.

Applications will be accepted online until September 10. The jury will evaluate submissions on...

In the first half of 2025, Afghan nationals accounted for the majority of business-related trips to Uzbekistan, totaling 207,500 visitors, according to data from the National Statistics Committee.

Citizens of Tajikistan and Turkmenistan also visited Uzbekistan for commercial purposes, with 12,200 and 1,600 travelers respectively. Turkmen citizens made up a modest share of the total.

In comparison, fewer visitors arrived from Russia (451) and Turkey (276) for business-related reasons. As of early July, Uzbekistan welcomed a total of 223,600 foreign visitors for commercial purposes — a 3.4-fold increase compared to the same period last year.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has proposed the development of an agreement on transit guarantees for countries without direct access to the sea. The initiative was voiced at a conference dedicated to this issue in Turkmenistan.

«Such a mechanism would ensure fair access to ports and transport routes, reduce shipping risks, and contribute to lowering inequality in global logistics,» the head of state emphasised.

Tashkent also supports accelerating the construction of the railway between Uzbekistan and Pakistan and connecting it to a broader corridor that links Uzbekistan with China. A key priority is...

Sea Breeze Uzbekistan, the company behind the ambitious luxury resort planned on the shores of Charvak Lake, has officially been registered as a joint venture, according to Uzbekistan’s Unified State Register of Enterprises and Organizations (EGRPO).

The registration took place on August 4, shortly after the government issued a decree outlining the measures for the creation of the Sea Breeze resort complex. The project is valued at $5 bn and will span more than 570 hectares of land.

Under the new regulations, any discharge of waste into Charvak Lake or the Chirchik River is strictly prohibited. Violations may result in...

Three tour operators from Navoi and Samarkand regions have been fined for advertising Umrah pilgrimage trips without the required licenses, according to Uzbekistan’s Committee for the Development of Competition and Consumer Protection.

The companies, A-Hello, Rayxona Tour, and SM Tower Tour, were found to have promoted Umrah packages in violation of advertising laws, despite lacking official authorization to offer such services. Administrative proceedings were initiated against all three firms.

In addition to the tour operators, eight Telegram channels and Instagram accounts that promoted the unlicensed religious tours were also held administratively liable.

Authorities emphasized that all advertisements for religious...

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been awarded the Turkmenistan state order «For Contribution to the Development of Cooperation.» The award was presented during the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, held in Ashgabat.

The honor was bestowed by National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. During the ceremony, Mirziyoyev expressed his deep gratitude, stating that he regards the award as a symbol of respect not only for him personally but for the people of Uzbekistan.

«I perceive this high distinction as recognition of our joint efforts to...

From July 23 to 29, 2025, a delegation from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade visited the United States to boost export capacity and deepen trade and economic relations.

During their visit to New York, 25 Uzbek textile companies showcased their products under the unified «Made in Uzbekistan» brand at three major international trade fairs — Texworld NYC, Apparel Sourcing USA and Home Textiles Sourcing Expo.

As part of the exhibitions, Uzbek representatives held talks with major brands and industry associations, including Levi Strauss & Co., PVH Corp., American Eagle Outfitters, Macy’s, Bunzl plc, Tapestry Inc., and trade...

The Grand Mir Hotel in Tashkent, formerly known as Hotel Rossiya, is set to be demolished, Kursiv Uzbekistan has confirmed with staff at the hotel.

Although the exact demolition date has not yet been finalised, the hotel remains open for business, according to a hotel employee.

According to Podrobno.uz, the demolition is planned for September, as reported by Shavkat Abdullayev, a representative of the architecture firm Design Factory. The company is part of Sarikoc Holding, which also owns Koç Construction, the company behind major developments in the capital including the Hilton Hotel and Congress Hall in Tashkent City

Justin Bieber has once again sent the internet into a frenzy, this time not with music, but with a hoodie. The pop star posted a photo of himself on Twitter wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with the phrase «It’s not clocking to you,» a line from a recent viral encounter with paparazzi.

The post quickly exploded across social media, with fans flooding the comments and quote tweets urging Bieber to turn the moment into official merchandise. Many are already calling it «the next iconic Bieber look.»

The now-famous phrase, delivered by Bieber in response to a persistent paparazzo, quickly became...

In July 2025, Uzbekistan’s solar and wind power stations produced a record-breaking 1.246 bn kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, according to new official data. This amount represents 17% of the country’s total energy production for the month and marks the highest monthly output from renewables in Uzbekistan’s history.

This milestone was made possible by the operation of 11 solar photovoltaic stations and four wind power plants across the country, with a combined capacity of 4,119 MW. The output in July surpassed the previous record set in May 2025, when solar and wind plants generated 1.104 bn kWh, making July’s figure...

If you’re coming to Uzbekistan for Jennifer Lopez‘s concert in Tashkent on August 7, you’re in for more than just one unforgettable night. The pop icon’s only Tashkent performance is reason enough to book a trip, and while you’re here, it’s the perfect chance to explore the country beyond the stage.

With its mix of modern energy and ancient heritage, Uzbekistan offers a rich experience for every type of traveller. From the vibrant streets of Tashkent to the historic cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, there’s plenty to see, taste and discover before or after the big night.

The concert is...

A farm in Kazakhstan’s Raiymbek district is set to grow a specialised variety of potatoes for use in Lays crisps, under a new collaboration with global food giant PepsiCo.

The agricultural firm, Altyn Dan, was established in 2023 with support from the local government in the Almaty region. Initially launched as a service centre, the company has quickly become a key player in the region’s farming industry.

At present, Altyn Dan cultivates potatoes across 150 hectares using drip irrigation technology to conserve water. In addition, grain crops are being grown on 1,500 hectares of the Karoy Plain.

The farm...

Israel’s GCI Gemological Centers has signed a partnership agreement with Uzbek company Expert One to establish a gemological centre in Tashkent, according to Dunyo news agency.

The new centre will focus on the analysis and certification of diamonds and other precious stones, applying GCI’s international standards. Alongside its core work, GCI Gemological Centers Uzbekistan plans to introduce educational programmes in gemology – the scientific study of gemstones and ornamental minerals.

Once operational, the Tashkent facility will become GCI’s first in Central Asia and only its second branch globally. The company is headquartered in Tel Aviv and currently operates gem...

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan met with Turkmenistan’s National Leader and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, during a visit to the city of Turkmenbashi.

At the start of the meeting, President Mirziyoyev warmly congratulated Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov on the successful organisation of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, stressing the importance of the issues discussed for sustainable development in the region.

The two leaders reviewed progress on strengthening bilateral ties, following up on agreements made during their April meeting in Samarkand. They noted with satisfaction the steady growth in cooperation, grounded in friendship, trust and mutual...