SME Tax Relief: Uzbekistan’s new presidential decree boosts small-business growth with a higher VAT entry threshold from June 1 (12,000× the Base Calculating Amount) and a simplified 6% VAT option for eligible catering, trade and services firms until 2030, easing reporting and corporate income tax. Energy Storage Push: Uzbekistan’s BESS capacity reached 1,545 MW, covering over 13.5% of evening peak demand, as the country expands renewables and storage to stabilize the grid. Trade Roadmap with Kazakhstan: Mirziyoyev and Tokayev signed a practical roadmap in Astana covering cooperation across autos, energy, chemicals, metallurgy, pharma, logistics, construction materials, housing and agriculture. Russia Fruit/Vegetable Import Rules: Rosselkhoznadzor says it has not imposed bans on Uzbek fresh produce, but it is clarifying technical talks after earlier confusion about temporary restrictions on 10 exporters. LPG Supply Shift: Uzbekistan sharply increased LPG imports from Russia to 231,000 tons in Jan–Apr 2026 (3.5×), aligning with rising regional energy demand. Corruption Crackdowns: Authorities detained suspects in bribery cases in Jizzakh and Ferghana, including alleged payments tied to land allocation and loan approvals. Pharma Enforcement: Large illegal medicine shipments were seized in Ferghana and Namangan, with authorities citing improper storage and unlawful circulation. Regional Connectivity: Uzbekistan will host the second Termez Dialogue on June 4–6 in Tashkent, focusing on peace, connectivity and climate adaptation for shared prosperity. Japan Partnerships: Ferghana region agreed partnership cooperation with Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture, while TEXNOPARK discussed potential escalator production expansion with Shanghai Mitsubishi.