Uzbekistan advances comprehensive new Law on Transport
A draft Law on Transport, published for public discussion in January 2026, sets out a unified statutory framework consolidating all commercial transport activity across road, rail, air, water and multimodal modes under a single instrument. The draft introduces mandatory registration for digital aggregator platforms, an open electronic tender system for route licensing, new cabotage restrictions and a restructured multimodal liability framework.
What has changed and why it matters
The draft Law on Transport represents a step-change in ambition. It is a single consolidated statute replacing fragmented sector-specific rules and introducing new obligations extending beyond traditional carriers to digital platforms, aggregators and international operators. Expected adoption in Q4 2026.
Mandatory aggregator registration
Chapter 4 introduces a dedicated legal framework for digital platforms matching carriers with passengers or shippers. Obligations include incorporation as an Uzbek legal entity, notification to the Ministry of Transport, system integration, mandatory fiscal receipts, registration of all driver labour contracts and a restriction on onboarding unlicensed carriers.
Open electronic tendering for routes
All passenger routes will be allocated through open electronic tenders. Routes deemed socially necessary but commercially unviable will be eligible for state subsidy.
Multimodal transport and unified liability
A multimodal transport operator assumes full legal responsibility for the entire journey across all modes. A single document covers the journey and the operator bears liability for loss, damage or delay across all legs including subcontracted ones.
Cabotage and transit corridor restrictions
Cabotage by foreign carriers is prohibited. Third-country transport through Uzbekistan is also prohibited unless bilateral agreements provide otherwise. Transit corridors are designated by the Cabinet of Ministers.
Taxi and ride-hailing standards
Requirements include maximum vehicle age of 15 years, mandatory civil liability insurance, acceptance of electronic payments and display of a standardised taxi passport.
What this means for your business
Companies in ride-hailing, freight aggregation, international road freight, automotive, retail, pharma and infrastructure should assess the operational, structural and contractual implications ahead of expected adoption in Q4 2026.
Get in touch to discuss what these changes mean for your operations.