Uzbekistan is introducing changes to pasture management rules, whereby plots will be classified into color categories depending on the land condition. Tenants may face contract cancellation for non-compliance with grazing rules. Furthermore, starting in 2028, users will have the option to insure pastures against yield reduction caused by natural phenomena and fires.
New regulatory measures, approved by a presidential decree, also include granting residents of mahallas free long-term rights to lease public pastures and introducing restrictions on well drilling.
Pasture Classification and Control
Based on geo-botanical research, pastures will be divided into three types. Grazing is permitted on lands categorized as 'green' provided that established standards are met. On 'yellow' category territories, a practice of rotating plots is required to ensure vegetation recovery. Grazing on 'red' category pastures will be completely prohibited for at least three years.
For individuals violating the established rules, an automated process for terminating lease agreements is provided. Claims in such cases will be generated through the E-yaylov information system and subsequently sent to judicial bodies.
Insurance and Leasing Mechanisms
From 2028, users will be able to obtain insurance for pastures against productivity decline due to natural disasters and fires. The cost of the insurance premium will be distributed equally: half paid by the land user, and the other half covered by the Agricultural Insurance Fund.
Residents of mahallas will receive the right to free leasing of public pastures for a term of 49 years without paying taxes. However, they will be prohibited from transferring these plots to third parties, subleasing them, or dividing the territory.
Restrictions and Infrastructure Development
Starting in November 2026, well drilling will only be permitted in locations specified on the optimal placement map. Livestock farmers will be able to use wells built with state funds jointly.
Additionally, land plots designated for constructing large livestock complexes and feed warehouses will be put up for online auctions. The minimum starting price for such objects will be 50 percent of the normative value of the land.
Previously, the khokims were instructed to complete the restoration of 620 thousand hectares of land by the end of the current year, with another 3.7 million hectares planned for restoration next year.