SOURCE has been successfully integrated into Uzbekistan’s legislation for PPP infrastructure project development and management. The Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 720, dated October 31, 2024, formalised its use, marking a significant step forward in the country’s adoption of SOURCE. This development underscores progress and highlights SOURCE’s growing role among its users.
SOURCE made compulsory for developing and managing PPPs
The Sustainable Infrastructure Foundation (SIF) began engaging with Uzbekistan in 2019 to integrate the SOURCE platform into the country’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) ecosystem. The first phase (2019-2022), supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), focused on adapting SOURCE to Uzbekistan’s regulatory environment, aligning it with national frameworks and digitising processes under Cabinet Minister’s Decree #259. In January 2024, following administrative reforms, the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MoEF) requested SIF’s continued support to operationalise the platform. With support from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), SIF assisted the MoEF in advancing the platform’s full implementation. While it’s mandated, Decree #259 came into light, and SOURCE became compulsory for use. Below, you can read a short overview of the renamed Resolution 720 and the aspects of SOURCE. For more details, you can access the full text of Resolution 720 here [https://lex.uz/docs/7189434].
“Integrating SOURCE into our legislation is a key milestone for Uzbekistan. It ensures our PPP projects meet SDGs and international standards, promoting transparency and attracting global investment to drive economic growth towards a sustainable future.”
— Abdukodir Yokubov, Deputy Director, Department of Implementation of Public-Private Partnership Projects
Mention of SOURCE in the Resolution 720
The resolution introduces two primary provisions related to the SOURCE.
Here are the provisions related to SOURCE.
Provision 1, Paragraph 7
This section highlights the role of the SOURCE:
“The Ministry of Economy and Finance, in cooperation with the ‘Sustainable Infrastructure Foundation’ (SIF), is taking measures to increase the attractiveness of public-private partnership projects on the ‘Source’ international platform in line with international standards, and to expand opportunities for financing and implementing large-scale projects. This information is accepted for reference.”
Provision 5: Focus on SOURCE
Provision 5 focuses entirely on the use of the SOURCE for managing PPP projects. Key directives include:
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- They ensure that projects valued over USD 10 million are listed on the SOURCE to attract international investment.
- All relevant project documents, including concept notes, tender documents, and contractual terms, must be continuously updated and accessible on the platform. This guarantees stakeholders access to up-to-date information, reduces delays, and fosters collaboration.
The Impact: Transforming Uzbekistan’s Infrastructure Sector
The provisions in Resolution 720 mark a significant leap forward in Uzbekistan’s commitment to attracting international investors for infrastructure projects. By leveraging SOURCE, the country aims to streamline the PPP process, improve transparency, and create a more investor-friendly environment. With the continuous availability of updated project information, investors and developers can make more informed decisions, reduce risk and improve the overall efficiency of project implementation. Such progress aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader development goals under the Uzbekistan-2030 strategy and reflects a significant commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive economy.
These achievements have been made possible through the vital support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), respectively, provided support in 2019 and 2024. SECO has further strengthened governance and transparency frameworks critical for investor confidence. ADB Country Director Kanokpan Lao-Araya highlighted that, through strategic investments, knowledge-sharing, and private sector engagement, ADB aims to help the country strengthen its resilience, advance its human capital, and accelerate the transition to a sustainable, green economy.[1] The combined efforts of the international partners and the government signal a transformative era for Uzbekistan’s infrastructure sector, positioning it as a model for sustainable development in the region.
Looking Ahead
As Uzbekistan implements these provisions, SOURCE will play a central role in growing the country’s infrastructure sector. A more dynamic and open environment for public-private partnerships is anticipated, with increased opportunities for global investors to participate in large-scale development projects.
The changes introduced by Resolution 720 are set to have a lasting impact on Uzbekistan’s infrastructure development, positioning the country as a critical player in the global PPP landscape. For stakeholders, it’s essential to stay informed about the ongoing developments and consider how these updates might impact current and future projects.
[1] https://www.adb.org/news/new-adb-country-director-uzbekistan