Uzbekistan Updates Poverty Line: Minimum Consumer Expenses Rise to 715,000 Soums

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan has updated its poverty line, calculated based on minimum consumer expenses. For 2026, it has been set at 715,000 soums per person per month, an increase of 46,000 soums compared with last year, when the figure was 669,000 soums.

The National Statistics Committee reported that the 2026 minimum consumer expenses were recalculated using a separate indexation, taking into account price indices for food and non-food items, as well as services, in line with the annual inflation for 2025.

Minimum consumer expenses represent an estimated calculation of the basic costs of food and non-food goods, along with services. The indicator is based on an analysis of the actual cost and consumption structure required to maintain a healthy standard of living for households.

Internationally, minimum consumer expenses are widely used as a benchmark for the poverty line. They help identify target population groups in need of material or other social support from the state, taking into account real consumption patterns and population needs.

The indicator is also applied to enhance the effectiveness and targeting of measures outlined in poverty reduction strategies and programs, and to monitor their implementation continuously. Additionally, minimum consumer expenses can serve as a criterion for determining minimum pensions and allowances, as well as for providing other forms of material assistance to low-income families.