FAO Presents Results of Land Policy and Land Code Reform Project in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A final project workshop under the “Support to the Revision of the Land Code” initiative was held in Tashkent on 20 May, with results presented on 22 May 2026. The event was organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The workshop presented the final project report, policy recommendations on agricultural land governance, and proposals for revising the Land Code of Uzbekistan. Around 40 representatives from government institutions, international organizations, and expert communities took part.

Agriculture remains a key sector for ensuring food security, supporting rural development, and contributing to employment and the national economy. In recent years, Uzbekistan has implemented reforms aimed at developing market-based agriculture, strengthening land tenure security, and improving the legal framework governing land relations.

Project implementation and scope

In response to an official request from the Government of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Agriculture, FAO implemented the project “Support to the Revision of the Land Code” (TCP/UZB/4003) from 25 December 2024 to 31 May 2026.

The project included a legal assessment of the existing Land Code, preparation of recommendations for amendments related to agricultural land, and capacity-building activities for stakeholders. Workshops, consultations, and meetings were held with key national institutions, including the Oliy Majlis, ministries responsible for agriculture, economy, finance, justice, water resources, and other relevant agencies. Field visits were also conducted to Syrdarya and Fergana regions.

Key policy findings

The project produced five interconnected policy documents covering agricultural land use rights allocation, land tenure security, development of land use rights markets, legal improvements, and recommendations for revising the Land Code.

Key issues addressed included transparency in land allocation via eAuction systems, improved access to land for smallholders, women, and youth, and the need to finalize an Agricultural Land Strategy alongside the adoption of a new Land Code.

Experts emphasized the importance of secure land-use rights, investment support for family farms, and integrated approaches to soil, water, and climate challenges, as well as stronger institutional frameworks for land governance.

Legal and institutional recommendations

The final report includes recommendations to strengthen land tenure security, clarify procedures for terminating land use rights, improve access to justice, and introduce pre-court protection mechanisms and compensation rules.

It also proposes comprehensive revision of the Land Code, including updated classifications of land categories, improved regulatory frameworks, stronger public participation, and environmental safeguards in land use decisions.

Additional recommendations include introducing social and environmental assessments for land category changes, improving auction mechanisms, enhancing land data accessibility, and strengthening institutional protection of land users’ rights.



FAO reaffirmed its readiness to continue supporting Uzbekistan in building a transparent and efficient land governance system. The initiative is expected to contribute to improved rural livelihoods, stronger food security, and sustainable agricultural development in the country.