Uzbekistan to begin transition to liquefied gas market
In Uzbekistan, there are plans to gradually transition the supply of liquefied gas to the population to market principles, starting with a pilot project in the Andijan region.
Uzbekistan intends to gradually transition the supply of liquefied gas to the population to market principles. The pilot project is planned to be launched in the Andijan region, Minister of Energy Sherzod Khodjayev announced in an interview with the "Uzbekistan 24" TV channel.
Within the framework of the project, not only "Hududgaztaminot" but also at least two private entrepreneurs will be able to sell liquefied gas to the population at free prices. According to the minister, the participation of the private sector should create a competitive environment and improve the quality of service.
The authorities consider one of the problems to be the situation where, when gas needs exceed the established norm, citizens and entrepreneurs independently refill cylinders at automotive gas filling stations and then transport them in personal vehicles. Khodjayev called this method illegal, incorrect, and dangerous.
In this regard, an option is being considered to establish points of sale for liquefied gas cylinders directly in the mahallas. In parallel, it is planned to revise the technical requirements for such facilities.
They want to introduce a mobile application for consumers. Through it, it will be possible to order the required volume of gas and choose a convenient time for home delivery.
Currently, "Hududgaztaminot" uses one type of cylinder with a capacity of 20 kg. Private operators are planned to be allowed to sell liquefied gas in cylinders of other volumes, without the current restriction.
The changes will also affect importers. Entrepreneurs importing liquefied gas, after selling the required volume to the population, will be able to sell the remaining fuel through the exchange without restrictions.
Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance for the Oil and Gas Sector Khurshed Mustafayev announced that a separate enterprise, LPG-Trade, will be created within the structure of "Hududgaztaminot". It will be engaged in supplying liquefied gas to the population.
In addition, measures of financial support for "Hududgaztaminot" are provided to ensure stable operation during the autumn-winter period. At the same time, it is planned to abolish certain exchange benefits for importers of liquefied gas provided for by current legislation.
According to Mustafayev, this entire set of measures should ensure an uninterrupted supply of liquefied gas to the population during the autumn-winter period.
Currently, about 3.8 million consumers and nearly 2,000 social sector facilities are supplied with liquefied gas. For 2026, the delivery of 604.8 thousand tons of fuel is planned for them.
At the same time, 22% of consumers receive liquefied gas at intervals of more than 46 days. Due to delays, some families are forced to buy gas at automotive gas filling stations at market prices. As a result, the expenses of such consumers can be several times higher than the established price, it was noted at a meeting with the president.