Gov't revamps online auction rules for mining and subsoil rights

Uzbekistan's government has updated its regulations for granting subsoil exploration and mining rights through online electronic auctions. A new resolution from the Cabinet of Ministers introduces significant modifications to how mineral resource deposits are evaluated, how permits are issued, and how initial auction prices are determined.

The government's decree creates a formal process for re-evaluating starting prices before subsoil areas are made available for online bidding. Additionally, for permits granted on a "first-come, first-served" basis, applicants must now pay a fee equivalent to the standard starting price of an auction.

The resolution also substantially alters the method for calculating the initial bidding prices for plots designated for artisanal gold mining. The base rate per hectare has been increased from 35 times to 100 times the base reference value (BRV).

Furthermore, the Ministry of Mining Industry and Geology is mandated to complete a detailed pricing methodology for mining plots by October 1, 2026. The ministry is also required to upload comprehensive information on operational mines and potential fields into the "Geomonitoring" information system by March 1, 2027. These updated rules will become effective three months following their official publication.