On June 27, Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a resolution “On measures to support the media and develop the field of journalism”.
According to the document, in the period from July 1, 2022 to July 1, 2025:
- mass media pay income tax at a tax rate reduced by 50% in relation to the established tax rate, with the exception of mass media of an advertising nature;
- printing equipment, modern photo and radio television devices, not produced in the Republic of Uzbekistan, imported according to the lists formed in accordance with the established procedure, as well as paper are exempt from customs duties.
In addition, from 2023, the practice of sending out mandatory free 110 copies of periodicals and 67 copies of book products will be canceled and the procedure for the purchase of printed materials by the relevant state bodies and organizations, as well as other institutions (with the exception of the National Library of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi), is being introduced. At the same time, funds will be allocated from the state budget for procurement by the relevant state bodies.
Budgetary organizations through their expense item “library fund” are allowed to send funds to subscribe to printed periodicals, their electronic forms, as well as electronic media.
A procedure is being established in accordance with which, from October 1, 2022, an annual competition will be announced for the 30 best projects for the production and broadcasting of television and radio products intended for children, each worth up to 300 BCAs. At the same time, these expenses are covered from the state budget, additionally allocated to the Agency for Information and Mass Communications.
Moreover, the costs associated with carrying out the activities defined by this subparagraph are covered at the expense of the Fund for Supporting the Development of the Information Sphere and Mass Communications of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
“Determine that in 2023-2024, 50 journalists and editorial staff are sent to foreign countries to improve their skills, study experience, undergo internships and participate in prestigious media events, and also organize training courses for them with the involvement of foreign qualified specialists. The corresponding expenses in this direction are covered by the State budget funds allocated to the Union of Journalists of Uzbekistan, as well as other sources not prohibited by legislative acts,” the document says.
