The Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan, Sherzod Khodjayev, stated in an interview with the channel Uzbekistan 24 that Uzbekistan intends to gradually transition the supply of liquefied gas to the population to market principles. A pilot project under this initiative is planned to be launched in the Andijan region.
According to the project's concept, liquefied gas will be able to be sold to households at free market prices not only by the company Hududgaztaminot but also by at least two private enterprises. The Minister noted that involving the private sector should contribute to forming a competitive environment and improving the quality of services provided.
Currently, authorities face a problem where consumers and enterprises independently refill gas cylinders at gas stations if their needs exceed established norms, after which they transport the cylinders using private vehicles. Khodjayev characterized this practice as illegal, incorrect, and dangerous.
In this regard, government bodies are considering the possibility of creating points in mahallas where residents can purchase cylinders filled with liquefied gas. A revision of the technical requirements for such facilities is also expected.
For consumers, a mobile application is planned to be developed, allowing them to order the required amount of gas and specify a convenient time for home delivery. Currently, Hududgaztaminot uses one type of 20 kg cylinder, but private operators will be allowed to sell liquefied gas in cylinders of various volumes without existing restrictions.
Specific changes will also affect importers. Entrepreneurs engaged in importing liquefied gas will be allowed to sell remaining fuel through the exchange after fulfilling obligations to the population.
Khurshed Mustafayev, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance overseeing the oil and gas sector, reported that a separate enterprise, LPG-Trade, will be created within Hududgaztaminot to be responsible for supplying liquefied gas to the population. Furthermore, measures of material support are planned for Hududgaztaminot to ensure stable operation during the autumn-winter period. At the same time, some benefits for liquefied gas importers currently valid under legislation will be canceled.
According to Mustafayev, the entire set of measures is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted supplies of liquefied gas to the population during the autumn-winter period. Currently, about 3.8 million consumers and nearly 2000 social sector institutions receive liquefied gas. 604,800 tons of fuel have been allocated for their needs in 2026.
It was noted that 22% of consumers receive gas at intervals of more than 46 days. Due to such delays, some families have to buy gas at gas stations at market prices, which can result in these consumers' expenses being several times higher than the regulated price, which was mentioned at a meeting with the president.