Uzbekistan has introduced new requirements for advertising calls and SMS messages distributed via mobile networks. According to a presidential decree adopted on July 15, advertising may only be sent with the prior consent of the citizen, and its distribution is prohibited during evening and nighttime hours.

The new rules will take effect on November 1, 2026. Under the decree, all legal entities and individuals advertising goods, works, or services through mobile communications may only send SMS messages after obtaining the recipient's written or electronic consent.

Legal entities providing services for sending advertising calls and SMS will be allowed to operate only after registering their information systems in the state register of personal data databases.

Furthermore, the distribution of advertising calls and messages via mobile networks is banned between 6:00 PM and 9:00 AM.

Mobile operators are also assigned new responsibilities: they must fully or partially block advertising calls and SMS messages they distribute upon the subscriber's request.

The document states that failure to comply with these requirements will be considered a violation of advertising and personal data legislation and will serve as a basis for taking appropriate measures.

By August 2026, a draft law “On amendments to certain legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan aimed at strengthening the protection of citizens' rights regarding advertising calls and messages” will be developed and submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers. The draft will be prepared by the Committee for the Development of Competition and Protection of Consumer Rights, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Agency for Regulation of Telecommunications.

Source: www.gazeta.uz