President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced plans to reduce all types of fines for entrepreneurs by an average of half. Furthermore, starting in 2027, disputes between businesses and state bodies will be regulated by a principle under which entrepreneurs are considered right.
These statements were made on August 18 during an open dialogue with entrepreneurs in the Khorezm region. The President noted that currently 51 agencies have the right to impose financial fines, and some state structures retain part of the received funds within their organizations. Mirziyoyev warned that such a system could generate improper incentives where inspections are used to collect money.
The President emphasized that fines should serve the purpose of maintaining order and preventing violations, not replenishing the budget. Starting in 2027, the principle of 'presumption of entrepreneur's correctness' will apply in disputes with state bodies. An entrepreneur will not be deemed guilty until their guilt is established by the court; until then, fines and other coercive measures will not be applied.
The government also intends to implement the 'warning for the first offense' principle. If an entrepreneur violates established requirements for the first time, and this violation does not harm human life, health, or property, they will be given 10 days to rectify the violation.
The changes will also affect procedures for resolving disputes between businesses and state structures. Regulatory agencies will be obliged to pay state fees at each stage of judicial proceedings after the case is reviewed by the court of first instance. Additionally, the Expert Council at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry is planned to be granted authority to consider disputes in the fields of customs regulation, construction, sanitation, quarantine, and veterinary services.