Lilshira
Uzbekistan allows agencies and enterprises to buy GPUs directly from manufacturers from Jan 1 2026
Effective 1 January 2026 Uzbekistan permits government agencies and enterprises to purchase graphics processing units (GPUs) directly from manufacturers’ authorized distributors. The rule replaces earlier indirect procurement channels and targets public sector bodies and commercial firms involved in AI projects.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Agencies and enterprises can now buy GPUs directly from authorized distributors
- Timing
- The rule takes effect on 1 January 2026
- Who is affected
- Government agencies and enterprises operating in Uzbekistan
The details
- Takes effect
- January 1, 2026
- New rule
- Since the effective date, government agencies and enterprises may purchase graphics processing units directly from manufacturers’ authorized distributors.
Legal amendment overview
A legislative change introduced in early 2026 modifies the procurement framework for high‑performance computing hardware. The amendment explicitly authorises direct purchases of graphics processing units, a critical component for artificial‑intelligence workloads, by public bodies and commercial firms.
Implementation and scope
The permission applies to all government ministries, agencies, and any enterprise registered in Uzbekistan that requires GPU resources for AI development or data‑center operations. Purchases must be made from manufacturers’ distributors that hold official authorization, ensuring compliance with existing import and customs regulations.
- Direct procurement replaces previous reliance on third‑party resellers
- Transactions remain subject to standard customs duties and tax obligations
- Authorized distributors are listed on the Ministry of Digital Technologies website
Expected impact on AI projects
By removing an intermediate procurement layer, the change aims to shorten acquisition cycles, lower costs, and accelerate deployment of AI‑driven services across government and industry. Faster access to GPUs supports the expansion of data‑center capacity and the rollout of AI‑based public‑service platforms outlined in Uzbekistan’s AI Development Strategy.
- Reduced lead time for hardware acquisition
- Potential cost savings for large‑scale AI deployments
- Enhanced ability to meet the 2027 AI computing centre target in Karakalpakstan
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers planning visits to Uzbek AI facilities will find no change to entry requirements.
- Existing tourism itineraries remain unaffected by the GPU procurement rule.
Cost and documents
- No new fees are introduced for travelers; procurement costs apply only to agencies and enterprises.
- No additional documentation is required from visitors related to this rule.
What you need to do
- Agencies and enterprises should review internal procurement policies to incorporate direct‑purchase procedures.
- Relevant departments must verify that chosen distributors are officially authorized before placing orders.
Who this affects
-
Government agencies
The amendment explicitly grants ministries and public bodies the right to buy GPUs directly.
What to do Update procurement guidelines to allow direct orders from authorized distributors.
-
Enterprises operating in Uzbekistan
Enterprises are included in the scope of the new procurement permission.
What to do Align purchasing processes with the direct‑purchase framework and confirm distributor authorization.
-
Research institutions
Many research labs rely on GPU hardware for AI experiments and fall under the broader definition of enterprises.
What to do Ensure hardware orders are placed through authorized channels to comply with the new rule.
Frequently asked questions
When can Uzbek government agencies start buying GPUs directly?
Agencies can begin direct purchases from manufacturers’ authorized distributors on 1 January 2026, the date the new rule takes effect.
Do private companies in Uzbekistan also benefit from the direct‑purchase rule?
Yes, any enterprise registered in Uzbekistan is permitted to buy GPUs directly from authorized distributors under the same regulation.
What qualifies as an authorized distributor for GPU purchases?
Authorized distributors are those officially recognized by the GPU manufacturers and listed on the Ministry of Digital Technologies website; they must meet import and customs standards.
Will this rule affect customs duties or taxes on GPU imports?
The rule does not change existing customs duties or tax obligations; all purchases remain subject to the standard fiscal regime applicable to imported hardware.
How does the new procurement rule support Uzbekistan’s AI strategy?
By allowing faster, cost‑effective access to high‑performance GPUs, the rule helps accelerate AI project deployment, supporting targets such as the 2027 AI computing centre and broader AI‑readiness goals.
