What changed in business registration and operations from 2026

From 1 January 2026 Uzbekistan launched the "Start a business in 15 minutes" registration system. A number of changes affecting the day-to-day operation of companies and entrepreneurs took effect alongside it.

Individual entrepreneurs gained the right to hold a business name — previously available only to legal entities. For an entrepreneur building a recognisable brand this matters: the name can now be protected.

At the same time QR codes for accepting electronic payments became mandatory. This seemingly technical requirement directly affects how settlements with customers are handled and how revenue is evidenced.

• business registration through the "Start a business in 15 minutes" system
• the right of individual entrepreneurs to hold a business name
• mandatory QR codes for accepting electronic payments

What this means in practice: A business name should not merely be chosen but checked for conflicts — otherwise a dispute with the owner of a similar brand is only a matter of time.