Why is this important
The financial blow to UzPost coincided with a wave of rumors about its privatization: a question arises — have already “new” owners been obligated to pay VAT or is this a settlement before the transaction? The situation intensifies public attention to the lack of transparency in the potential sale of the state-owned property. Fiscal pressure on a strategically important operator can affect the company’s stability and trust in the investment climate.
What happened
- UzPost was additionally charged 26.21 billion soums in VAT and 5.24 billion soums in fines for transit services to foreign companies in 2021-2023.
- The legal battle lasted almost a year: initially, the company won, but in September 2025, the court overturned the lower courts’ decisions.
- Now UzPost is obligated to pay almost 31.5 billion soums — with a profit of 843.9 million soums for the entire year 2024.
- At the same time, the media and the market are discussing whether UzPost has been sold — referring to a possible deal with Wildberries, but it hasn’t been officially confirmed.
- The fiscal grievances coincided with the reorganization of UzPost ownership: this could be perceived as a settlement stage before the sale.
Context
UzPost is a national postal operator, listed as a strategic enterprise. The 29.4% state share is subject to privatization according to the presidential decree. In September, Wildberries allegedly became a participant in the privatization, but there is no official confirmation.
UzPost has social and logistical significance — any changes in management or financial position are perceived as sensitive.
