TASHKENT (UzReport) — Uzbekistan has banned the import of various items. The list includes 529 goods and services of foreign origin, which are produced by at least two domestic companies.

According to the Uzbek authorities, this initiative aims to support domestic producers and increase their participation in the public procurement system. Nevertheless, the current austere economic situation may not be unrelated to this decision.

The list includes:

• Food products: chocolate, waffles, cookies, sunflower oil, dairy products, meat, fish;
• Medical: medicines and medical devices;
• Household appliances: air conditioners, refrigerators, monitors, washing machines, televisions and other devices;
• Vehicles: tractors, cars and trucks.

The government has also approved the procedure for granting preferences for locally produced goods in the public procurement process.

By September 1, 2021, the authorities plan to launch a central information portal on public procurement.