Uzbekistan is actively implementing the unified system of voluntary environmental labeling of goods and services "Yashil belgi" ("Green Sign"). The system is designed in accordance with international standards and aims to encourage environmentally responsible production and consumption. From January 2026, the availability of this certificate will become one of the factors in the selection of participants in public procurement.
The Yashil belgi certification mechanism is based on the ISO 14024 standard and national regulatory documents. The procedure applies to products and services for which there are approved environmental standards, with the exception of pharmaceutical and tobacco products. Certification is carried out by the authorized body and includes filing an application, checking documentation, on-site inspections, sampling and testing of samples (if necessary), drawing up an opinion and making a decision on granting or refusing.
Applications are reviewed within five business days, and the full certification process does not exceed three months. If there are minor inconsistencies, a period of up to 30 days is given for their elimination. In case of significant violations, the certificate is refused. The certificate is issued on the day of acceptance of a positive opinion and is valid for three years. Its renewal is possible if you submit an application at least 60 days before the expiration date.
The document is drawn up in Uzbek, with the possibility of translation upon request. If you change the product name, technical specifications, or transfer production, re-certification is provided. In case of termination of production, the certificate is subject to cancellation.
Compliance is monitored through scheduled and unscheduled inspections. The first check is carried out no later than 12 months after the certificate is issued, and then-annually. Unscheduled inspections are carried out when complaints are received, violations or technological changes are detected. If deviations are detected, the certificate validity period can be suspended for up to 90 days. If the violations are not corrected within 60 business days, the document is canceled.
The use of the "Yashil belgi" sign is allowed only if there is a valid certificate. Labeling is applied to products, packaging, labels, and can also be used in advertising materials and documentation. The minimum size of the sign is 10 mm and at least half of the logo.
According to the government decree, starting from January 1, 2026, companies with the Yashil belgi certificate will receive significant benefits when participating in public tenders. In particular:
- environmental documents are taken into account in the tender evaluation and give additional points (up to 5% of the overall rating).;
- participants receive a 30% discount on brokerage fees;
- exemption from making an additional deposit;
- all other things being equal, customers give priority to "green" participants, including the possibility of entering into contracts for a reduced starting price.
In addition, the minimum mandatory volume of "green" public procurement in the structure of public spending has been approved, and it will increase annually. This creates a sustainable incentive for businesses to integrate environmental standards into production and participate in creating a responsible business environment in Uzbekistan.
