Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The draft law “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts in Connection with the Intensification of Market Reforms and Uzbekistan’s Accession to the World Trade Organization” was considered at its first reading.

Uzbekistan continues to implement large-scale reforms aimed at the full integration of the country into the international economy, harmonizing national legislation with international standards, gradually transforming monopolized sectors according to market principles, increasing the share of the private sector in the economy, and creating the most favorable conditions for the free activity of entrepreneurs.

In particular, within the framework of market reforms and Uzbekistan’s full membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO), there is a phased abolition of certain exclusive rights held by large state-owned enterprises.

Uzbekistan’s accession to the WTO requires adapting national legislation to the organization’s agreements, which is one of the key membership conditions. For example, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) obliges member states to substantially reduce tariff and other trade barriers.

The draft law proposes amendments and additions to the laws “On Licensing, Permitting and Notification Procedures” and “On State Duty.”

Specifically, it envisages the introduction of licensing for activities related to the procurement (purchase), processing, and sale of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal and waste, as well as wholesale and retail trade in natural gas.

The draft law aims to attract the private sector and innovation to the fields of scrap metal turnover and natural gas trade, creating a competitive and transparent market environment.

Following discussions, the draft law was approved by deputies at the first reading.