Why is this important
Language policy becomes part of administrative control: businesses will have to adapt to the requirements of the state language. Violations lead to warnings and administrative actions — risks for brands, especially new companies.
Regional differences show that the problem is more acute in some areas — perhaps local adaptation or educational work will be required.
What happened
- Since the beginning of the year, the Committee has inspected 3,615 trade and service organizations for compliance with the language policy of signs, announcements, and warnings.
- 2510 cases with foreign words or spelling errors were identified.
- In 1993, shortcomings were quickly rectified, and in the 21st, administrative cases were initiated.
- Предупреждения направлены в 2,9 тыс. предприятий, проведены профилактические беседы с персоналом торговых точек и общепита.
- In the regions: Samarkand region — up to 40% of companies with foreign words in their names; Andijan and Syrdarya regions — by 30%, Namangan region — up to 26%.
- Example: in the Bukhara region in 2024, out of 5,000 registered firms — 300 with foreign words; in the first quarter of 2025 — 245 out of 1,203.
- VFS Global is being investigated separately — for not using Uzbek language in documents, voice menus, and communication.
What will this give to the population and business
For the population:
- The share of information and announcements in the state language will increase — it will make it easier to understand the signs, the target for the local population.
- Perhaps, the prestige and status of the Uzbek language will rise, and national identity will strengthen.
For business:
- New obligations: verification of names, signs, advertising, documentation for compliance with language norms — re-registration costs.
- For brands with foreign words in their name, there is a risk of administrative penalties.
- Perhaps, the requirements for legal support, branding, and marketing will be strengthened.
Context
Uzbekistan’s legislation emphasizes the priority of using the Uzbek language in public information. The Competition Committee actively participates in controlling language policy in the business environment, using inspections, warnings, and administrative cases.
The issue of harmonizing norms with business needs and regional characteristics arises — in some regions, cases exceed average values.
