These transformations have resulted in a significant increase in both cargo and passenger traffic. The number of vehicles crossing the border has surged eightfold, reaching nearly 5 million. Customs revenues have risen nine times, exceeding 63 trillion sums in 2023. The time required for cargo processing has been reduced to three hours for imports and 20 minutes for exports.
The simplification of customs procedures has enabled nearly 6,000 exporters and 20,000 importers to substantially save time and financial resources. Consequently, Uzbekistan has improved its standing in the international logistics ranking based on customs indicators, moving up from 140th to 74th place.
However, there are still unresolved issues related to further digitalization, acceleration of processes, and enhancement of customs administration convenience. During the presentation, measures aimed at addressing these challenges were outlined.
In recent years, the capabilities for processing goods in the customs zone have significantly expanded, resulting in the volume of exported processed products exceeding 1 billion dollars. Further optimization of this mechanism will create conditions to increase this figure to 1.5 billion dollars within the current year.
With the active development of trade and tourism connections with neighboring countries, a twofold increase in passenger traffic and vehicle movement across the border is anticipated. This necessitates the modernization of infrastructure and an increase in the capacity of customs checkpoints.
One proposed solution is the implementation of a pre-information system for passengers on bus routes, similar to practices in aviation. This will expedite border crossing and reduce the processing time for buses by half. Additionally, a pilot system of "red" and "green" corridors for passenger cars and buses is planned to be launched at the largest customs posts.
Particular attention is being given to the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies in the customs control system. With the support of the World Bank, the risk analysis system will be enhanced, allowing for the assessment of entrepreneurs' reliability based on 122 criteria, including financial stability, tax discipline, and trade history. Furthermore, artificial intelligence will be utilized to automate the analysis of X-ray images of goods to identify potential risks.
The president has approved the proposed initiatives and emphasized the need for further improvements in the convenience of customs procedures and prompt service for entrepreneurs and tourists. He also instructed that customs legislation be fully aligned with the requirements of the World Trade Organization as part of Uzbekistan's accession process to the WTO.
Moreover, the head of state highlighted the importance of developing the Customs Institute and training highly qualified personnel in the fields of artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and risk analysis. Special attention will be given to expanding dual education and enhancing the organization of practical training for specialists in customs administration.
#Shavkat Mirziyoyev