The Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan has enacted a decision titled “On Measures to Further Develop the E-Commerce Sector in Uzbekistan,” marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital economy. This new directive outlines updated regulations aimed at streamlining operations for e-commerce platforms, including electronic trading portals, order aggregators, and digital streaming services.
Legal Framework for E-Commerce Operators
Effective July 1, 2025, only legal entities registered as residents of Uzbekistan can operate as e-commerce providers. These include platforms that facilitate online transactions such as marketplaces, aggregators, and streaming service providers.
Entities or individual entrepreneurs that solely provide information about goods, services, or digital products without engaging in electronic transactions are excluded from the classification of e-commerce operators under these regulations.
Key Compliance Requirements
The updated regulations impose stringent conditions to ensure accountability and operational standards for e-commerce operators:
- Legal Registration
- Operators must be formally registered as legal entities in Uzbekistan.
- Adherence to Laws
- Compliance with laws governing e-commerce, personal data protection, copyright, consumer rights, and advertising is mandatory.
- Transparency and Reporting
- Operators are required to provide information about their activities to authorized bodies upon request and free of charge.
- Retail Trade Regulations
- They must adhere to existing retail trade rules applicable in Uzbekistan.
- Operational Standards
- Platforms are required to maintain robust information systems to ensure seamless service delivery for all e-commerce participants.
Driving Sector Growth
These regulations are part of Uzbekistan’s broader initiative to create a transparent and structured e-commerce environment. By establishing clear rules, the government seeks to attract investments, foster consumer trust, and ensure compliance with international standards.
Regional Expansion in E-Commerce
The move aligns with the region’s expanding e-commerce footprint. Russian e-commerce giant Wildberries, already active in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Russia, has announced plans to expand into Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. The platform offers a diverse range of products, from clothing and electronics to home furnishings, underscoring the region’s growing demand for online shopping.
A Vision for a Digital Future
Uzbekistan’s proactive stance on regulating its e-commerce sector reflects its ambition to solidify its position as a digital hub in Central Asia. These measures aim to protect consumer rights, promote fair competition, and boost the sector’s contribution to the economy. As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, these regulations will serve as a foundation for sustainable growth, fostering a secure and efficient digital marketplace for all stakeholders.
