Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Senate of Uzbekistan approved a law aimed at strengthening payment discipline in waste collection and disposal services during its fourth plenary session.

In recent years, systematic efforts have been made to improve service quality. However, due to late payments, accounts receivable have surged to 600 billion soums, hindering infrastructure upgrades, private investment, and service improvements.

Previously, enforcement measures against non-payers were limited to court proceedings, prolonging the process. The new law amends the Civil and Housing Codes, as well as the laws on Competition and Electricity.

Under the new regulations, consumers with overdue waste collection payments will receive SMS notifications. If the debt remains unpaid, the consumer’s ability to make electricity bill payments will be temporarily restricted until the outstanding amount is settled. Waste management companies, however, will be responsible for ensuring billing accuracy. Once the debt is cleared, electricity payment restrictions will be automatically lifted.

The law aims to enhance payment discipline, modernize industry infrastructure, improve service quality, and attract private investment into the sector.