Competition Law at Uzbekistan
Competition law in Uzbekistan is governed by national legislation designed to ensure fair competition, prevent monopolistic practices, and protect consumer rights as the country modernizes its economy.
🏛️ Governing Authority
Antimonopoly Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan (AMCU)
The central regulatory body responsible for enforcement of competition laws.
Investigates anti-competitive practices, approves mergers, and monitors market competition.
📜 Legal Framework
Law on Protection of Competition (No. 951-I) — Adopted in 1996, with amendments
The foundational law regulating competition in Uzbekistan.
Prohibits anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominance, and unfair competition.
Law on Protection of Consumer Rights
Complementary legislation that also supports competition objectives by protecting consumers.
Regulations and guidelines issued by the AMCU
Help implement the law and provide procedural rules.
🔍 Core Areas of Regulation
Prohibited Practices
Agreements that restrict competition (price fixing, market sharing, bid rigging).
Abuse of dominant position by monopolistic or dominant firms.
Unfair competition practices such as misleading advertising.
Merger Control
Requires prior approval from the AMCU for mergers or acquisitions exceeding specified thresholds.
Market Investigations
AMCU can investigate markets to detect anti-competitive behavior or monopolies.
⚖️ Sanctions and Enforcement
Fines and penalties for violating competition law.
Administrative orders to cease illegal conduct.
Revocation of merger approvals if competition is harmed.
Legal proceedings can be initiated by the AMCU or private parties.
📈 Recent Trends
Uzbekistan has been actively reforming its competition framework to attract investment and foster market development.
Increased focus on sectors like telecommunications, energy, and transportation.
Cooperation with international organizations such as UNCTAD and the OECD to modernize competition policy.
Summary
| Aspect | Uzbekistan |
|---|---|
| Main Law | Law on Protection of Competition (No. 951-I) |
| Regulator | Antimonopoly Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan (AMCU) |
| Merger Control | Prior approval required for significant mergers |
| Enforcement | Fines, administrative orders, legal proceedings |
| Focus Areas | Cartels, abuse of dominance, unfair competition |
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