Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan is introducing new measures to promote the use of alternative construction materials as part of the 2025 state program, according to a presidential decree.

Starting from 1 August 2025, construction companies that shift from fired brick production to wall materials such as aerated and foam concrete blocks will receive priority access on the Shaffof Qurilish platform, which manages public procurement, construction services, and developer ratings.

For 2025, the subsurface use tax for brick and tile raw material producers is set at 5%, but not less than 4,620 soums per cubic meter. From 1 January 2026, this tax will double for fired and raw bricks, with gradual increases from 2027 onwards. The initial draft decree proposed a tenfold tax increase.

Additionally, from 1 January 2027, sand extraction will be banned in agricultural lands, protected natural areas, recreational zones, historical and cultural sites, as well as forest and water reserves. This initiative aims to preserve fertile soil and protect natural resources.

The government has been instructed to develop a two-month action plan to boost production and adoption of energy-efficient construction materials in the country.