Uzbekistan's Anti-Corruption Agency Uncovers Procurement Violations Totaling 666.6 Billion Soums

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In 2025, 189 violations were identified in Uzbekistan's public procurement system, totaling 666.6 billion soums, according to figures released by the Anti-Corruption Agency of Uzbekistan.

Compared to 2024, the number of recorded incidents fell by 282 cases, or 59.9%. However, the financial volume of violations moved in the opposite direction, rising substantially by 167.9 billion soums, an increase of 33.7%.

More than half of all identified cases — 102 episodes — involved biased evaluation of bids and the restriction of competition. A further 36 instances of conflict of interest were recorded, with 21 of these referred to court and the individuals responsible subjected to administrative liability. An additional 32 cases of affiliation were identified, while other violations accounted for approximately 9% of the total.

Following inspections, 117 representations were submitted to state contracting authorities. As a result, 60 procurement procedures worth 70 billion soums were annulled, and preventive measures were taken in respect of a further 87 procedures worth 560.1 billion soums.

Fourteen officials were held administratively liable, with fines totaling 16 billion soums imposed, 12 individuals received disciplinary sanctions, and criminal cases were opened in two instances.

By sector, the largest share of violations was recorded in education, water management, local hokimiyats, transport, and healthcare, which together accounted for 76.7% of all identified cases.

By region, the greatest increase in the value of violations was recorded in Tashkent at 541.8 billion soums, followed by Khorezm Region at 36.4 billion soums and Bukhara Region at 11.5 billion soums. Tashkent also led in terms of the number of incidents, with 64 violations recorded over the year.

The agency emphasized that systematic monitoring of public procurement remains one of the key instruments for reducing corruption risks and improving the transparency of budget expenditure.