NEWS

Edward’s East Strategies has prepared monitoring papers of the most notable regulatory initiatives and personnel changes in republics of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan within the period January 15, 2023 – February 15, 2024.

In Kazakhstan, the Government of Alikhan Smailov resigned during the period under review. Olzhas Bektenov, the former head of the Presidential Administration, has been appointed the new Prime Minister. At the same time, most of the ministers were reassigned to their posts. Among the new faces in the Cabinet:

• Prime Minister of National Economy is Nurlan Baibazarov, former Chairman of the national holding “Baiterek”;
• Prime Minister of Finance is Madi Takiyev, Deputy of the Majilis, Chairman of the Finance and Budget Committee;
• Prime Minister of Health is Akmaral Alnazarova, Deputy of the Senate of Kazakhstan;
• The Chief Minister of Emergency Situations is Genghis Arinov, Head of the Security Service of the President of Kazakhstan.

New Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov informed at a Government meeting that VAT would not be increased in the new Tax Code, although such a measure had been planned earlier.

In addition, the deputies of the Majilis adopted norms on health issues. In particular, it provides for a complete ban on vaping in Kazakhstan. Criminal liability for violation of the ban is introduced – up to five years in prison.

In turn, in Uzbekistan, the President approved the plan of measures for the development of the pharmaceutical industry. In 2024-2026, the “Good Practice of pharmacological supervision – GVP” and “Good practice of storage – GSP” standards should be implemented in the country. In addition, advertising of drugs and dietary supplements on TV and radio channels will be allowed only on the basis of the conclusion of a special council to be established under the Ministry of Health.

Another presidential decree in Uzbekistan introduces the rating of sustainability of entrepreneurs. Its purpose is to identify and encourage business entities that carry out activities in compliance with legal requirements.

Amendments to the Criminal Code and Administrative Code of Uzbekistan were also adopted, establishing legal liability for illegal trafficking of crypto assets and illegal mining.

The overviews also provide other regulatory legal acts and appointments of interest to business.