Uzbekistan introducing a procedure for calculating population’s minimum consumer spending

A resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers “On the introduction of the procedure for calculating the cost of minimum consumer expenditures” was adopted.

The indicator of minimum consumption expenditures is used as a criterion (or threshold) of poverty, Norma reports. 

From 2022, the criterion of average per capita income per month, used in the process of recognizing a family as low-income through the information system “Unified Register of Social Protection”, will be equated to the minimum consumer spending.

The forecast parameters of the minimum consumer spending by August of each year are calculated based on inflationary expectations.

Minimum consumer spending and poverty rates are determined based on the inflation rate for the reporting year and are published by January 20 of the following year. The structure of minimum consumer spending is reviewed at least once every 5 years.

The resolution approved the provision on the amount of minimum consumer spending of the population and the procedure for calculating the poverty line, which provides for:

ꞏ study of the minimum consumption costs, poverty line and real cost of consumption, as well as the composition of households;
ꞏ principles, stages and procedure for calculating the cost of minimum consumer spending on food and non-food products and services necessary to ensure a healthy lifestyle.