Uzbekistan Overhauls Export Rules and Introduces Three-Year Moratorium on Small Business Inspections
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is preparing a new package of measures to expand export opportunities and reduce the administrative burden on businesses. Key initiatives include an “export navigator” system, a network of export ambassadors and a three-year moratorium on inspections of small businesses, except those related to risks to public health or the interests of other entrepreneurs.
According to the data presented, 40% of exporters face difficulties finding foreign customers, 36% struggle with standards and certification requirements, 37% lack convenient financial instruments, and 33% report gaps in market, marketing and branding expertise.
The planned “export navigator” will provide integrated support throughout the process of entering foreign markets. A list of 100 products in demand abroad will be developed, while the production processes of 2,000 enterprises will be adapted to foreign markets and consumer segments. At least $1 billion will be allocated to a unified exporter support system.
Businesses will receive compensation for 50% of the cost of engaging foreign brand manufacturers, up to $500,000. Subsidies of up to $50,000 will be available for promoting national brands abroad and adapting them to international requirements. Half of warehousing and marketplace sales costs, as well as 80% of consulting expenses related to international tenders, will also be covered.
“Export ambassadors” will be established in 20 countries accounting for 60% of Uzbekistan’s exports, as well as in five additional high-potential markets. They will be selected from entrepreneurs with the highest export volumes to the respective markets.
At the same time, the government plans to reduce the inspection burden on businesses. More than half of 5,000 entrepreneurs analysed had undergone tax inspections two or three times a year, while another 21% had been inspected four times. A three-year moratorium will be introduced on inspections of small businesses that are not related to protecting public health or the interests of other entrepreneurs.
The planned “export navigator” will provide integrated support throughout the process of entering foreign markets. A list of 100 products in demand abroad will be developed, while the production processes of 2,000 enterprises will be adapted to foreign markets and consumer segments. At least $1 billion will be allocated to a unified exporter support system.
Businesses will receive compensation for 50% of the cost of engaging foreign brand manufacturers, up to $500,000. Subsidies of up to $50,000 will be available for promoting national brands abroad and adapting them to international requirements. Half of warehousing and marketplace sales costs, as well as 80% of consulting expenses related to international tenders, will also be covered.
“Export ambassadors” will be established in 20 countries accounting for 60% of Uzbekistan’s exports, as well as in five additional high-potential markets. They will be selected from entrepreneurs with the highest export volumes to the respective markets.
At the same time, the government plans to reduce the inspection burden on businesses. More than half of 5,000 entrepreneurs analysed had undergone tax inspections two or three times a year, while another 21% had been inspected four times. A three-year moratorium will be introduced on inspections of small businesses that are not related to protecting public health or the interests of other entrepreneurs.
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