The Tax Committee of Uzbekistan commented on the Central Bank's remarks regarding a draft resolution concerning the exchange of data on large P2P transfers. The department specifically noted that this initiative does not imply total surveillance of citizens' personal financial operations.
Substance of the Draft Resolution
The criticism arose from the Tax Committee's draft resolution, which provided for the exchange of data between tax authorities and banks. According to this draft, banks were required to notify tax authorities if a citizen's bank card received funds from acquaintances within one month exceeding 500 times the basic calculation unit (BCU), which is currently 206 million soums.
Committee's Position and Legality
Representatives of the committee stated that they respect the Central Bank's position regarding the protection of personal data and banking secrecy. Nevertheless, they emphasized that any interactions with banks will occur strictly within the framework of current legislation, ensuring confidentiality and maintaining public trust in the banking system. The committee reminded that the right to banking secrecy is guaranteed by Article 41 of the Constitution, and the procedure for providing information is regulated by the laws 'On Banking Secrecy' and the Tax Code, which already define cases of mandatory data transfer from tax authorities to the bank.
Goals and Public Discussion
The committee highlighted that private transfers themselves are not subject to taxation. It was specifically noted that the draft does not aim for mass monitoring of personal transfers. In the opinion of the committee representatives, the main task of this initiative is to create a transparent and secure mechanism for information exchange between banks and tax services, compliant with international standards. Public discussion has concluded, and all submitted proposals, including the Central Bank's opinion, will be considered before a final decision is made.
Criticism from Human Rights Activists
Earlier, the new bill was sharply criticized by Abdurakhmon Tashanov, head of the human rights organization 'Ezgulik'. He insisted that interference with personal information is permissible only if a citizen is under legal prosecution by law enforcement agencies based on a corresponding warrant.
