Business Opportunities in Uzbekistan

Import Taxes and Duties: Duties on cars, electronics, appliances, foodstuffs, and textiles range from 5 percent to 200 percent, a result of measures taken by the Government to protect domestic industry. Currency Issues: All legal entities, including those with foreign investments, must have the Central Bank?s permission to deal in foreign currency, and currency conversion has been problematic, particularly for importers of consumer goods and production inputs, with delays regularly stretching out more than a year. Overregulated Banking Sector: In late 2012, several private banks lost their license to conduct transactions in foreign currency. In 2013, one private bank lost its license. Also, credit unions were abolished in late 2012, but the leasing industry has grown in the past year, as has the number of private insurance companies. Judicial System and Trade Legislation: In general, the judicial system upholds the sanctity of contracts, but if a government-affiliated entity is involved, judgments tend to favor the local partner. U. S. firms should consult with a local attorney and develop relationships with Uzbek partners before entering the market.