Billions lost and equipment stolen at UzTest: Testing lab faces major accountability crisis

According to a report by UzA, one of three laboratory testing devices imported from Germany to Uzbekistan has gone completely missing.

The report states that the Bukhara regional branch of UzTest — the "Scientific Testing and Quality Control Center of Uzbekistan" — lost a 1.2-ton testing machine called “Brake Stand” valued at 150 million UZS, as well as a gas cylinder measuring device worth 250 million UZS.

Moreover, 6 billion UZS in funds have been used inappropriately at the institution.

“The agency’s leadership has yet to comment on these developments, and explanations regarding what measures are being taken against UzTest officials continue to be delayed,” the report states.

UzTest was established by a presidential decree titled “On Further Improving the Conformity Assessment System in the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Development of the Testing Laboratory Complex.” The center is responsible for organizing the certification of products and services, applying technical regulations, and adhering to national and international standards.

Earlier, Kun.uz reported that a vehicle at UzTest's Piskent test track was issued a certificate even though it had not undergone inspection.