Business Ombudsman challenges import restrictions on Electric Vehicles in Uzbekistan

The Business Ombudsman in Uzbekistan is challenging the restrictions on importing electric vehicles (EVs) in the country. The Office of the Authorized Representative under the President of Uzbekistan for the Protection of the Rights and Legal Interests of Business Entities (Business Ombudsman) has taken action by submitting an official inquiry to the Uzstandard Agency regarding the limitations imposed on EV imports.

The Business Ombudsman’s press service made an announcement on April 2 through its Telegram channel after reviewing an appeal from entrepreneurs involved in EV sales. The office carefully examined the issue to ensure its alignment with current laws and regulations.

A Facebook post from a year ago resurfaced and was referenced in the statement released by the Business Ombudsman’s office. This post had been republished recently and highlighted an appeal to the President on behalf of more than 400 car dealership owners. The appeal urged the removal of restrictions on importing electric vehicles into Uzbekistan and advocated for a free-market approach.

Deputy Business Ombudsman Jamshid Urunov engaged in discussions with representatives of the Technical Regulation Agency to explore potential solutions to the challenges posed by import restrictions on vehicles in the country. An official inquiry has been formally submitted to the Technical Regulation Agency of Uzbekistan to delve deeper into the legal aspects of the issue.

In December 2023, Gazeta.uz reported on a draft government resolution that aimed to tighten regulations on importing both traditional vehicles and electric cars. The proposal suggested that starting in 2024, individuals would no longer be allowed to import cars for commercial purposes. Additionally, a rule would be reinstated requiring new foreign-made cars to be exclusively sold through official dealers.

In March 2024, Chinese automaker BYD urged the Uzbek government to limit the unregulated import of EVs that do not meet local climate and road conditions and lack an official warranty. In response, the President directed the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade (MIIT), and Uzavtosanoat to present appropriate proposals to the Cabinet of Ministers by July 1, 2024. These proposals must consider the Law on Competition and principles laid out by the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Amidst these developments, the Business Ombudsman continues to challenge the restrictions on importing electric vehicles, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue to promote a more open market for EVs in Uzbekistan.