At a video selector meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on April 24, pressing issues affecting the country's economy were discussed in detail. It was emphasized that since the beginning of the current year, global oil prices have increased by nearly 40 percent, and due to global conflicts, logistics chains have changed, making transportation costs significantly more expensive. This situation also affects export and import operations, increasing overall costs by 25-30 percent.
The head of state emphasized the issue of inflation, noting that without price stability alongside economic growth, there will be no noticeable positive result for the population and entrepreneurs.
"No matter how much we strive to develop the economy, if inflation increases, it will lead to the devaluation of people's incomes," the president said.
It was noted that import inflation is exerting additional pressure on domestic market prices. However, it was strictly emphasized that this situation should not be used as an excuse to slow down anti-inflationary measures. The head of state specifically highlighted that 70 percent of products and services in the consumer basket are met by domestic production, emphasizing the need to effectively utilize internal capabilities.
Government members and regional leaders were assigned specific tasks to keep inflation around 6.5 percent this year by increasing the supply of local products and stabilizing prices.
It was announced that due to logistical disruptions, cattle imports decreased by half in the first quarter. To overcome this problem, subsidies of up to 4 million soums have been introduced for each pedigree cattle imported by air, and half of the transportation costs for meat imports will be covered.
At the same time, the task was set to increase new and alternative transport routes for entrepreneurs. Through this, it is planned to ensure the import of 45,000 tons of meat in the second quarter and 130,000 tons by the end of the year.
Shortcomings in the agricultural sector were also criticized at the meeting. It was noted that the planting of fodder crops is slow in some regions, particularly in Namangan, where a large part of the planned areas has not yet been cultivated. Furthermore, the commencement of silage planting in a number of districts was also criticized.
The issue of potato cultivation also received special attention. It was stated that prices have increased in some regions due to delays in planting. For example, in March, potato prices rose by 12.4 percent in Surkhandarya and by 9 percent in Kashkadarya.
The president gave strict instructions to regional leaders to fully utilize existing opportunities, increase responsibility, and prevent sluggishness.
"I emphasize once again: there is both funding and sufficient resources. There should be no problems with meat and potatoes," the head of state said.
In summary, specific measures were determined at the meeting to curb inflation, ensure food security, and strengthen economic stability.
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