Liquefied gas prices in Uzbekistan may rise 2.5-fold

A proposal has been made to increase the retail price of liquefied gas for the population in Uzbekistan from 2,000 soums to 5,000 soums per kilogram. A draft government resolution regarding this measure has been submitted for public discussion by the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

The government justifies the proposed price hike by citing declining domestic production, increased reliance on imports, and difficulties in ensuring the timely supply of gas to the population. Reportedly, there are approximately 4 million consumers who use liquefied gas for household needs. In some regions, gas cylinder deliveries are delayed by more than 30–35 days, forcing residents to purchase additional gas on the open market at prices ranging from 11,000 to 13,500 soums per kilogram.

Under the draft proposal, socially vulnerable families would receive compensation of 3,000 soums for each kilogram of gas. This assistance would be calculated based on a maximum monthly consumption of 20 kilograms, capping the total benefit at 60,000 soums. The compensation is proposed to remain in effect until January 1, 2030. Assistance may be provided to families included in the Social Registry, needy households with incomes below established thresholds, and families caring for orphans or children deprived of parental care.

Plans are in place to allow free submission of applications via Public Services Centers, "Inson" social service centers, neighborhood social workers, the my.gov.uz portal, or the "Ijtimoiy karta" (Social Card) mobile app.

Between 2023 and 2026, liquefied gas imports are projected to rise from 19,000 tons to 713,000 tons, while domestic production is expected to decrease from 883,000 tons to 803,000 tons.
Regarding the implementation date for the new price, the draft document specifies October 1, 2026, whereas the explanatory materials indicate November 1. Consequently, the exact date of the price change depends on the final decision.