Uzbekistan: gradual liberalization of telecommunications market started

The Cabinet of Ministers adopted Resolution No. 592 of September 18, 2025, aimed at gradually liberalizing the telecommunications market and creating a competitive environment in this strategically important industry. The document establishes the measures provided for by the presidential decree of June 2024, and opens up new opportunities for telecom operators.

According to the decree, starting from January 1, 2025, operators with mobile or wired networks in the country will have the right to directly connect to international Internet channels for their own commercial needs. This innovation is being implemented in an experimental format and is accompanied by strict requirements for compliance with information and cybersecurity standards.

Time conditions are set for participation in the experiment. In particular, telecommunications companies should establish centers for connecting to international networks, provide at least 50% of the population with backbone fiber-optic communication lines, including remote regions, and have infrastructure for providing broadband telecommunications services. In addition, participants are required to provide the working body of the State Unitary Enterprise "O'zbekiston telekommunikatsiya tarmoqlarini boshqarish respublika markazi" with project and technical documentation.

The decision is aimed at creating a transparent and competitive telecommunications market, where the key factor will be not only expanding access to the Internet, but also ensuring equal conditions for operators. Liberalization in this area opens up prospects for accelerated implementation of modern digital solutions and strengthening the country's position in the field of information technology.