Tax Committee Denies Zero VAT Plan for Catering

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Tax Committee of Uzbekistan has denied reports circulating on social media about a planned introduction of a zero value-added tax (VAT) rate for public catering businesses.

The agency clarified that during a recent meeting with industry representatives, various approaches to supporting the sector were indeed discussed, including international experience. In particular, examples from certain countries where preferential VAT regimes apply to catering businesses were reviewed.

At the same time, the committee noted that such measures abroad are typically accompanied by a number of obligations for businesses. These may include requirements related to staffing levels, wage thresholds, and other socio-economic indicators.

The Tax Committee emphasized that, at this stage, discussions are limited to examining potential support mechanisms and conducting a comparative analysis of foreign practices.

No final decisions have been made regarding the introduction of a zero VAT rate for public catering enterprises.

Business representatives have been invited to submit their own proposals and initiatives for the development of the sector.

Following their review, the authorities plan to formulate balanced solutions in cooperation with the business community, taking into account the interests of both the state and entrepreneurs.