Uzbekistan accelerates privatization and reduces state participation in economy
Uzbekistan plans to offer state-owned shares in 84 companies, 1,242 real estate properties, and about 8,000 hectares of land for sale as part of measures to reduce the state's role in the economy, the State Assets Management Agency told Kun.uz.
Uzbekistan is speeding up privatization and cutting back state involvement in the economy.
The measures are laid out in Presidential Decree No. PD-177 of August 28, 2026.
The total value of assets slated for sale is estimated at UZS 100 trillion, and the sales are expected to bring in at least UZS 14 trillion in proceeds by year-end.
Under the decree, 85 state-owned enterprises are also to be liquidated or reorganized, while 84 previously unsold assets will be put back up for auction with a starting price of UZS 1 million.
The new rules lower the advance payment required for state assets from 35% to 15%. The rest may be paid in interest-free installments.
Buyers who pay the full amount for an acquired asset within six months will qualify for a 25% discount, compared with a 14% discount for full payment within one month under the previous procedure.
Interest-free installment plans may run for up to five years if 35% of the asset’s value is paid within three months, and for up to seven years if 50% is paid within six months.
The decree also introduces new auction mechanisms. If an asset remains unsold for three months, its price will be cut in stages. In some cases, a hybrid auction that combines a price reduction followed by an increase may be used.
According to the agency, the new mechanisms and benefits may also be applied to the sale of assets on the balance sheets of commercial banks with state participation.
The decree also aims to make land plots more appealing to investors by introducing a “ready-to-use package” approach, under which technical conditions for connecting to utility networks and the necessary permits are prepared in advance.
Major state higher education institutions and specialized medical centers will also be gradually commercialized, with opportunities to attract private investors and use financial instruments, according to the agency.