The Legislative Chamber's Committee on Innovative Development and Information Technologies in Uzbekistan has begun reviewing draft legislation to enhance intellectual property (IP) protections. The proposal seeks stricter enforcement measures, including criminal charges, for violations of copyright, related rights, and industrial property rights. Revisions would affect multiple legal codes—Criminal, Criminal Procedure, Administrative Liability, and Civil—to bolster protections for both moral and economic rights tied to IP.
Under existing laws, IP infringements in Uzbekistan primarily incur administrative penalties, such as fines and confiscation of unauthorized goods. Repeat offenses within a year trigger escalated fines, currently set between 11.25 million and 18.75 million Uzbek soum (approx. $892–$1,496). The amendments specifically target illegal production, sale, or distribution of patented inventions and industrial designs. Proposed fines for individuals range from 1.875 million to 3.75 million soum ($149–$296), while penalties for officials could reach 3.75 million to 7.5 million soum ($296–$593).
The proposed amendments signal Uzbekistan’s commitment to creating a more secure and predictable IP environment, which could boost confidence among businesses and foreign investors. Strengthened penalties and criminal liability may deter IP theft, reducing risks for innovators and rights holders operating in sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and creative industries. For foreign firms, alignment with international IP standards could ease market entry and encourage technology transfers or partnerships. However, stricter enforcement may also increase compliance costs, particularly for SMEs unfamiliar with rigorous IP protocols. Overall, these reforms position Uzbekistan as a more attractive destination for investment in innovation-driven industries, provided implementation is transparent and consistent.