Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 1 July, during a session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, a draft law was approved in the first reading, proposing the introduction of licensing procedures for activities related to the procurement, processing, and sale of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal and waste, as well as wholesale and retail trade of natural gas. This was reported by the press service of the lower house of parliament.

The draft law aims to expand the participation of the private sector in these industries, create a competitive and transparent market environment, and align national legislation with the requirements of the World Trade Organization as part of Uzbekistan’s preparations for WTO accession.

The document proposes amendments and additions to the laws “On Licensing, Permitting, and Notification Procedures” and “On State Duties.” According to the draft, the authority to issue licenses will be granted to the Ministry of Mining and Geology and the “Uzenergoinspektsiya” inspection.

Deputy Minister of Justice Mahmud Istamov noted that the sectors covered by the draft law are strategically important, and their regulation through licensing will ensure market transparency and strengthen discipline.

He added that if the law is adopted, involving the private sector in natural gas trade will enable more efficient gas supply to remote regions of the country.

This will open opportunities for investment inflows, the introduction of innovative solutions, and contribute to the gradual reduction of the dominant role of state-owned companies, thereby strengthening competition principles in the sector.