FAO Holds Inception Seminar in Uzbekistan on Land Code Revision Project

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — An inception and consultative seminar was held in the capital as part of the “Support for the Revision of the Land Code” project, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan.

The event brought together representatives of government bodies, international organizations, and the expert community.

Land resources were highlighted as a key factor for the country’s food security and rural development. In recent years, the Uzbek government has actively moved toward a market-oriented agricultural model, strengthening land rights guarantees and developing a land-use rights market. A major milestone in this process is the revision of the Land Code.

Within the FAO project, in response to Uzbekistan’s request, three strategic papers were prepared, focusing on agricultural land-use rights distribution, land rights guarantees, and the development of the land-use market. These documents were discussed during the seminar with participation from both international and national experts.

The seminar was opened by Sherzod Umarov, Deputy FAO Representative in Uzbekistan; Nuriddin Kushnazarov, Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture; and representatives from the Ministry of Economy and Finance. International FAO experts Bradley Patterson and Thomas Versinskas joined national consultants in discussions.

Nuriddin Kushnazarov, Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture, noted: “The reforms in agriculture and land relations are crucial steps for national development. Presidential Decree No. PF-172 of 12 September 2025 aims to enhance land-use efficiency and create a sustainable economic environment. We are confident that the FAO project will help align national legislation with international standards, balance public and private sector interests, and ensure sustainable land management.”

Sherzod Umarov emphasized: “The Land Code revision is not just a legal reform but also a contribution to economic growth, improving rural livelihoods, and ensuring sustainable land use for future generations. FAO relies on international principles of responsible land management and intends to support Uzbekistan in developing a fair and efficient land governance system in partnership with government bodies and local communities.”

Bradley Patterson, FAO international land specialist, added: “Effective land management in Uzbekistan is key for sustainable agricultural development. Strengthening land-use rights, improving the legal framework, and introducing market mechanisms will create new opportunities for farmers and rural communities. FAO is pleased to support Uzbekistan in adapting international experience to the national context.”

Following the seminar, FAO confirmed its readiness to continue cooperation with Uzbekistan in creating a transparent, effective, and fair land governance system, which will contribute to food security, rural development, and sustainable economic growth.