Uzbek Senate Approves Law Strengthening Rights of Landowners, Farmers, and Medicine Consumers

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — At a plenary session, the Senate approved the Law “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” aimed at further strengthening property rights, supporting agricultural producers, and enhancing the protection of public health.

During the discussion, it was noted that in recent years, Uzbekistan has consistently implemented reforms to create favorable conditions for entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, ensure effective use of land resources, and provide citizens with high-quality and safe medicines and medical products.

The law introduces amendments and additions to the Criminal Code, the Code of Administrative Liability, the Land Code, as well as the Laws “On Farming” and “On State Duty.”

Specifically, the Land Code is supplemented with a provision allowing the full or partial transfer of rights and obligations under a land lease agreement to another party, including subleasing. This aims to enable more flexible and efficient use of agricultural land.

The Law “On Farming” introduces a provision granting the head of a farm the right to transfer the land lease to a family member if the head is employed in a position that precludes entrepreneurial activity.

Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Liability strengthen liability for illegal interference with or obstruction of the free movement and sale of goods and financial resources.

Special attention is given to increasing accountability for violations and crimes related to non-compliance with the established rules for retail sale of prescription medicines.

Additionally, adjustments to the Law “On State Duty” exempt family members of “Vatandosh” cardholders from paying state fees when changing a visa to multiple-entry, registering at a place of residence, or extending registration.

Senators emphasized that the adoption of this law establishes a legal framework for the more rational use of agricultural land, protects the legitimate interests of farmers, and expands their financial opportunities.

At the same time, the law is aimed at strengthening control over the circulation of medicines and ensuring strict compliance with public health requirements.

Following the discussion, the law was approved by the upper house of parliament.