Demand for air-cleaning devices surges sharply in Uzbekistan as air quality worsens

Google Trends data reviewed by Kun.uz shows that nationwide searches for the term “air purifier” (“очиститель воздуха”) jumped sharply over the past week, surpassing the previous peak recorded in early November 2021. At that time, Tashkent experienced one of the most severe dust storms in its history, leaving the air thick with particles even inside closed buildings.

According to the Ministry of Health, on 4 November 2021 more than 678 people in Tashkent sought emergency medical care due to breathing difficulties during the dust storm, with several requiring hospitalization.

New record in search interest

Search interest began climbing steadily from January 2023 and reached its highest level in the second week of November 2025. Over just two days, 16 and 17 November, Google searches set a new all-time record, reflecting heightened public alarm about worsening air conditions.

Customs statistics confirm the same trend: imports of household air purifiers into Uzbekistan have soared over the past three years.

• 2022: around 2,000 units imported
• 2025 (first ten months): more than 18,500 units worth $1.3 million

This represents a ninefold increase. Imports of air purifiers (classified under HS code 8509) are subject to a 20 percent customs duty, with a minimum of $3 per item.

Public monitoring and mask recommendations rise

Since October 2025, the national meteorological service, Uzhydromet, has been issuing near-daily recommendations urging residents to wear masks outdoors due to poor air quality.

At the same time, more people are using the IQAir application to monitor pollution levels in major cities. The platform’s subscriber base for Tashkent is approaching 600,000, indicating growing public dependence on real-time air quality data.

The worsening environmental conditions have also prompted artistic responses. Earlier, the local street artist Inkuzart created a new mural illustrating people wearing gas masks in the streets – a visual commentary on the city’s escalating air pollution problem.