No authority can authorize tree cutting or relocation in Uzbekistan – presidential decree

All rights of the Uzbek government to grant exceptions for non-compliance with environmental requirements have been abolished. This was stated in the presidential decree announced on 19 November.

According to the decree, it is strictly prohibited to issue documents that allow exemptions from or violations of environmental legislation, including issuing conclusions of state ecological expertise.

The ban applies to all decisions, orders, statements, written instructions, and internal documents of the Cabinet of Ministers, ministries, agencies, and local authorities that involve the cutting or transplanting of trees and shrubs.

In other words, neither the government, ministries, the Ecology Committee, nor local authorities will be able to approve any documents related to tree felling or transplanting.

Starting from 1 March 2026, all legislative acts and legally binding directives that provide exemptions from compensation payments for environmental damage will lose their legal force. Any such exemptions will only be granted through legislation.