Chinese Investment in Uzbekistan: Soft Power or Land Grab?
The Cadastral Agency in Uzbekistan has addressed recent rumors surrounding the selling of land to foreigners, reassuring the public that foreign nationals cannot own land as private property in the country. Instead, the law allows them to only lease land. The agency emphasized that there is no need for concern and urged the public to remain calm.
The agency’s statement came in response to growing discussions on social media about Chinese investors supposedly purchasing large plots of land in Tashkent. However, the Cadastral Agency clarified that under Article 17 of the Land Code, foreign individuals and entities can only acquire land on a lease basis and are not eligible for land privatization.
Economist Otabek Bakirov weighed in on the issue, emphasizing the importance of protecting the country’s land. While acknowledging the existing regulations, he suggested additional measures to ensure that a significant portion of ownership in foreign-invested enterprises belongs to Uzbek citizens. He also highlighted the need for stricter restrictions on land leases to foreign entities.
Furthermore, recent reports of Chinese investment in Uzbekistan’s gold mining sector raised concerns among the public. The Center for Subsoil Use clarified that none of the companies involved in the mining operations were fully owned by Chinese nationals, allaying fears of foreign dominance in the industry.
In a separate incident, a group of Chinese individuals gathering at Magic City Park in Tashkent sparked speculation of a protest. However, the Ministry of Internal Affairs clarified that it was a group run organized by Huawei employees, not a demonstration. The ministry suggested that local organizations could learn from such events.
Despite the growing presence of Chinese companies in Uzbekistan, the government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding national interests and ensuring that foreign investments benefit the country’s economy. Measures to protect land ownership and regulate foreign investment remain a key priority for Uzbekistan’s authorities to maintain a conducive investment climate.
