President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a video conference meeting dedicated to the results of the country's socio-economic development for the first half of the year and priority tasks until the end of the year.

Since the beginning of the year, the economy has grown by 8.5%. Industrial production increased by 8%, services by 16.9%, construction by 13.8%, and agriculture by 4.7%. Investment volume reached $28 billion, and exports $14.4 billion. International rating agencies Fitch and Moody's upgraded Uzbekistan's sovereign credit rating. The head of state emphasized that to improve the quality of life for the 40 million population, economic growth rates of 9–10% must be ensured.

During the meeting, the results of regional work over 6 months were critically analyzed. It was noted that in a number of regions, available reserves for growth in gross regional product, industry, construction, investment, and exports are not being utilized. It was decided to strengthen accountability measures for managers who failed to fulfill approved plans.

The meeting announced a "shock forty-day period" for reforming the work of the "mahalla seven." The new system is already being implemented in 2,000 of the most problematic mahallas. Khokims will be personally responsible for resolving issues of electricity, gas, water supply, and road conditions. Employment agencies will focus on targeted training and employment of citizens, while the activities of banks and divisions of the Mahalla Association will undergo a three-month practical certification.

A separate block was devoted to inflation and food security issues. Despite commitments to keep inflation at no more than 3%, most regions failed to meet the target. Due to rising meat prices, the state allocated 300 billion soums to compensate for air transportation costs of imported products. Additionally, by the end of the year, it is planned to import 100,000 head of cattle and 150,000 sheep and goats, as well as commission 340 cold storage facilities with a total capacity of 87,000 tons.

Summing up, the president noted that global economic uncertainty requires mobilization of internal reserves. By August 15, together with the expert community, proposals for economic development will be prepared, and the main macroeconomic parameters and investment and export programs for 2027 will be developed according to a new "mobilization scenario."

Source: podrobno.uz