Another important initiative aimed at enhancing the national tourism potential in Uzbekistan and promoting the Uzbek brand globally has been implemented. The decree signed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlines measures to significantly increase the flow of tourists and rapidly expand the scope of tourism services in 2025-2026, which includes state financial support for entrepreneurs promoting Uzbek national dishes abroad.
How are subsidies provided?
When at least 50 restaurants and catering establishments specializing in Uzbek national dishes are established annually by local entrepreneurs in leading countries designated by the Tourism Committee, the following expenses will be subsidized by the state once:
- Registration and obtaining permits;
- Rent and design work;
- Purchase of necessary equipment and utensils.
50% of these expenses will be covered, but the subsidy amount should not exceed $25,000.
Additionally, for restaurants operating abroad, 50% of transportation costs related to the delivery of up to 300 kg of products from Uzbekistan will be reimbursed (maximum 100 million soums) annually.
For these purposes, 30 billion soums will be allocated from the state budget each year.
Media promotion also receives special funding
From September 1, 2025, to January 1, 2028, 50% of the funds spent on video content, advertising videos, clips, anime materials, and other audiovisual promotional activities prepared by hotels and restaurants (up to 50 million soums per facility) will also be reimbursed by the Tourism Support Fund. It is planned to allocate 20 billion soums annually for this direction.
Mirziyoyev's personal initiative
It should be noted that during a meeting chaired by the President on May 2, the necessity of supporting restaurateurs who are widely promoting Uzbek national dishes abroad was emphasized. The head of state tasked the relevant officials with subsidizing expenses related to registration, obtaining permits, and other organizational matters during the process of opening restaurants abroad.
From the Zamin.uz editorial team:
This decree is not only a means of supporting entrepreneurs but also a significant step towards introducing Uzbek cuisine and culture to the world. How do you evaluate the idea of increasing Uzbek restaurants abroad?
