Photo from yuz.uz
The government of Uzbekistan will hold negotiations with a number of African and Asian states to eliminate import duties on goods from these countries, with the preferential regime expected to run through 2027. The measure is outlined in a presidential decree by Shavkat Mirziyoyev, On Measures to Develop the Construction Materials Industry, which entered into force on December 2 following its publication on Lex.uz.
The list of countries for which Uzbekistan plans to introduce zero import duties includes:
✅ Algeria
✅ Egypt
✅ Morocco
✅ Tunisia
✅ Qatar
✅ Mongolia
✅ Saudi Arabia
Officials are also tasked with reaching agreements with these states on mutual recognition of certificates of origin.
Raw materials for construction materials are expected to be fully exempt from customs duties until 2028. The interagency commission on WTO cooperation has been instructed to prepare a list of relevant raw materials as soon as possible.
The decree sets production and export targets for construction materials: annual output should reach 62 trillion soums ($5.2 billion), and exports $1.5 billion. Uzbekistan plans to implement projects worth $3.5 billion, resulting in the creation of new sector-specific enterprises.
Border troops have been instructed to ensure safe passage for Uzbek company representatives through the Termez border crossing into Afghanistan.
The document also eases export requirements for ferrous metals and rolled steel. These products will no longer be classified as goods requiring bank guarantees or contract insurance when exported and paid for in foreign currency.
The decree calls for expanding the use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in the construction materials industry, with 100 billion soums ($8.4 million) to be allocated annually from the state budget starting in 2026.
Additional regulations concern developers. By May 1 next year, authorities will approve a list of environmentally friendly, resource-efficient, and energy-saving materials recommended for construction. Publicly funded building projects will be required to use at least 80% domestically produced construction materials.
