ADM Jizzakh, an automobile manufacturing company, has proposed reinstating import duties on EVs in Uzbekistan. This recommendation was made by Daniyar Davletiyarov, General Director of ADM Jizzakh, during an open dialogue with entrepreneurs from the automotive and electrical engineering sectors on July 26.

Economist Otabek Bakirov commented on this proposal, stating, “Excellent logic and no wonder. As we have repeatedly said, all Uzbek monopolists, oligarchs, and officials are united by an extreme fear of competition. Because the competition clearly shows who they really are. As we expected, we have returned to 1996. Forward, only backwards!”

Davletiyarov noted that the car market in Uzbekistan is currently oversaturated and suggested regulating the import of vehicles brought in by individuals. He pointed out that while local manufacturers must comply with over 60 technical requirements, imported cars undergo a simplified certification process and often fail to meet local standards.

The CEO also proposed that the importation of vehicles should be managed through official dealers. In March, it was reported that the procedure for importing cars was expected to become stricter from April 1, though the corresponding decree from the Cabinet of Ministers has yet to be officially published.

Davletiyarov highlighted the unequal duty structure, noting that while ADM Jizzakh pays import duties on components and goods, electric vehicle suppliers are exempt. This, he argued, makes local production of electric cars less economically viable.

To rectify these issues, Davletiyarov recommended introducing import duties and new certification standards for electric vehicles. He noted that many imported electric vehicles, especially from China, do not meet local standards.

ADM Jizzakh plans to commence the production of hybrid and electric vehicles by 2026. The company intends to invest $550mn in new projects over the next three years and expand its workforce from 4,500 to 10,000 employees.

In June, the BYD plant in the Jizzakh region started producing electric vehicles. This joint venture aims to expand its market presence in regional countries and increase its production capacity to 500,000 units.

Since 2019, electric vehicles imported into Uzbekistan have been exempt from customs duties, excise duties, and motor transport fees. In November 2021, the State Road Traffic Safety Department began issuing “green” license plates for electric vehicles.