Why is this important
The privatization of key infrastructure assets without open procedures raises questions about transparency. The participation of two major players — Wildberries and Uzum — can change the balance of power in the logistics and e-commerce markets.
What happened
- Uzum announced its intention to participate in UzPost’s state share bidding by sending a letter to the State Assets Management Agency.
- The company emphasizes that postal management should take into account national interests and an important social function.
- A week earlier, the media reported that Wildberries had become a participant in the privatization, but the details of the deal were not disclosed.
- There was no official announcement of the auction. Neither the SAMA, nor the Ministry of Economy, nor Wildberries itself commented on the situation.
- The company considers itself a natural partner of UzPost and claims to participate in the development of postal infrastructure.
What they say
The postal service is an important state asset. It should develop in the interests of all partners and users — from Uzum’s appeal.
Context
UzPost is undergoing transformation and partial privatization. In September, a 25% stake was transferred from UzNIF to the SAMA. In June, the composition of affiliated persons was changed: the Ministry of Finance and Aloqabank were removed, and structures under the control of the State Joint-Stock Company were added. Uzbekistan Post is looking for an investor to digitize, expand branches, and optimize logistics.
