Legislative Chamber Approves Technical Regulation Reform Bill

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan on May 5 adopted in its second and third readings a draft law aimed at reforming the country’s technical regulation system, according to the lower house’s press service.

The document is designed to align Uzbekistan’s national system of technical regulations with international standards and remove existing barriers to business activity. Amendments are introduced to four laws covering metrology, standardization, technical regulation, and accreditation of conformity assessment bodies.

One of the key changes is a phased transition from the current system of verification of measuring instruments to a verification procedure based on international requirements and involving stricter equipment checks. At the same time, the introduction of calibration practices for measuring instruments in industry is planned, which is expected to improve product quality and safety.

Under the draft law, only organizations that have undergone official authorization and meet established state requirements will be allowed to carry out verification and calibration activities.

The bill also provides for a transition to predominantly voluntary application of product standards. The removal of certain provisions related to state control and financial penalties is aimed at improving business conditions.

In addition, a “company standards” mechanism is introduced, allowing businesses to develop their own product requirements. At the same time, international norms will take priority in the development of national standards.

The document proposes eliminating a number of excessive procedures, including mandatory product registration and the re-registration of certain documents. The penalty system will also be revised based on risk levels of violations.

Special attention is given to modernizing the accreditation system, which is expected to be brought in line with international practice. This, the authors of the bill say, will ensure recognition of Uzbek certification abroad.

The draft law has now been sent to the Senate. After approval by the upper house, it will be submitted for presidential signature.