One of the bills, aimed at simplifying the management of special economic zones (SEZs), passed the Legislative Chamber in July and August. It proposes to abolish the administrative councils of SEZs and assign their responsibilities to the directors, including:
- Selection of investment projects and approval of applications;
- Provision of land for project implementation;
- Organization of infrastructure construction work.
The requirement for an expert review of the business plan or feasibility study of the project is also being eliminated. SEZ directors will have the authority to independently decide on the compliance of investment projects with requirements.
Another bill introduces accountability for government bodies demanding information from businesses that is not included in the list of required reports and statistical data. This list was approved by a presidential decree in January of this year.
Additionally, amendments to the law on public procurement were approved. Mechanisms such as two-stage public procurement, simplified procedures for low-cost procurement, and framework agreements are being introduced.
Following the tender, the customer, along with selecting the best proposal, will be able to conclude a framework agreement for a period ranging from one to four years. The law defines the concept of a reserve winner in auctions or electronic shop trades.
A principle of sustainability is being introduced in public procurement, focusing on the economic, environmental, and social impacts. Grounds for preventing conflicts of interest when considering complaints in the procurement sphere are also stipulated.
The fourth bill addresses the regulation of traditional medicine. It introduces liability for "quacks"—individuals diagnosing and treating citizens without the permission of the Special Commission of the Ministry of Health for licensing activities using traditional medicine methods.
Additionally, public promotion of healing services using unauthorized methods will be penalized. The prohibition of such advertising is also included in the law on advertising.
The fifth bill concerns water management. Water extraction limits for agricultural needs will be established by basin management offices of the Ministry of Water Management and regional offices of the Ministry of Agriculture, subsequently approved by local councils.
Farmers are required to use water resources according to agreements with the state institution "Suv Yetkazib Berish Xizmati" (Water Supply Service). They are also responsible for maintaining inter-farm irrigation and collector-drainage networks and participating in their repair.
