Uzbekistan to cut gas, power prepayments to 15%

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan will reduce advance payments for electricity and gas from 100% to 15% for businesses connected to automated electricity and gas metering systems and that comply with payment requirements, presidential spokesman Sherzod Asadov said.

Asadov announced the measure following President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's sixth open dialogue with entrepreneurs in Khiva.

According to the president, entrepreneurs have repeatedly said that the requirement to fully pay for energy resources in advance reduces their working capital. The new procedure will apply to businesses connected to automated electricity and gas accounting systems and maintaining payment discipline.

Mirziyoyev also announced plans to change the management system in the energy sector. According to the president, a new system will be established in all districts to take into account entrepreneurs' current needs as well as their future plans.

Separate changes are planned from 2027 in the financing of construction projects. To encourage an increase in the number of contractors and designers, an amount equal to 5% of the minimum wage will be allocated for each man-hour, regardless of the location of construction.

State project estimates will provide contractors with a 7% profit margin. Funding for design work will amount to between 4% and 7% of the project's value, depending on the complexity of construction.

Another priority identified by the president was the creation of an ecosystem linking artificial intelligence, management efficiency and new investment.

According to Mirziyoyev, amid changing market conditions, entrepreneurs need to use artificial intelligence to increase added value and productivity while reducing production costs.