Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A draft law aimed at further improving the operation of arbitration courts sparked active discussion among deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis.

During the first reading, numerous proposals were made regarding specific provisions. These were carefully reviewed by members of the responsible committee and the working group, after which the draft was revised in line with the recommendations.

Considering potential difficulties in forming arbitration courts, especially in remote areas where assembling a panel of five judges can be challenging, the committee proposed reducing the minimum number of judges in a permanent arbitration court from five to three.

The bill also stipulates that state bodies, organizations, and enterprises with state participation, as well as citizens’ self-governance bodies, cannot be parties to an arbitration agreement.

Furthermore, arbitration courts will not be allowed to hear disputes related to land issues, recognition of ownership rights to buildings and structures, or the recovery of funds from the state budget.

A permanent arbitration court will be established by a non-governmental non-profit organization and operate under its auspices.

The adoption of these provisions is expected to strengthen the legal foundations of arbitration courts and help form a qualified body of arbitrators.

The bill was passed in its third reading and sent to the Senate for further review.