In accordance with established updates, a series of legislative amendments are set to take effect in Uzbekistan starting November 1, 2026. These regulations purportedly aim to streamline operations for business entities and enhance consumer protection, though critics remain skeptical about the actual implementation and bureaucratic hurdles that might persist.

Under the new provisions, the advance payment requirement for electricity and natural gas consumption will be slashed from 100 percent to 15 percent for business entities connected to automated metering systems equipped with remote shut-off capabilities. This adjustment allegedly stems from executive decrees following the leadership's open dialogue with entrepreneurs. However, businesses that have failed to comply with payment discipline over the preceding two months will be strictly excluded from this relief.

Additionally, the mandate requiring enterprises to submit written reports on their energy consumption to regional electricity and gas supply companies is officially being abolished. Starting November 1, the traditional paper-based formalization of energy supply service contracts will be replaced entirely by mandatory electronic execution.

Furthermore, the regulatory framework introduces strict controls over commercial SMS communications. Sending promotional messages or offering goods and services via mobile text without the individual's prior written or electronic consent will be prohibited. Legal entities providing mobile marketing and notification dispatch services will now be required to register their information systems within the state registry of personal data bases prior to operation.

Source: kun.uz