Certificates for sale? Imported car testing bottleneck in Piskent fuels corruption suspicions

Since November 1, 2024, technical inspections for imported vehicles in Uzbekistan have been relocated from customs facilities to the testing ground in Piskent. Additionally, a new electromagnetic compatibility test has been introduced for cars imported by individuals or private entrepreneurs. As a result, long queues began forming, sparking discontent. As of now, it’s virtually impossible to get an appointment in the near future.

This situation may be facilitating corrupt practices. Khairulla Qilichev, a member of the “Ezgulik” human rights society, has pointed out that some people appear to be obtaining certificates ahead of schedule – jumping the months-long line.

“A citizen registered their BYD Song vehicle for testing and was clearly shown a testing date of June 28, 2025, at 04:30 a.m. Yet the car received its certificate from UzTest on May 20 – 38 days earlier. So, are the thousands of people patiently waiting their turn through the official e-government system just fools? Or does the one who found this 'shortcut' have powerful connections?” wrote Qilichev.

He alleges that an unofficial method of obtaining certificates without waiting in line may have emerged – despite no legal provision allowing for it.

“According to unverified but persistent rumors, skipping the line could cost you between $1,000 and $1,200. If there’s any truth to that, the Prosecutor General’s Office and the State Security Service should launch a joint investigation,” he added.

A source at the Technical Regulation Agency confirmed to Kun.uz that this incident did occur and they would investigate the matter further.

It’s worth noting that without a conformity certificate from UzTest, a car cannot be officially registered in Uzbekistan.

Drop in car imports

Car imports into Uzbekistan have significantly declined in 2025. In the first quarter alone, imports were three times lower compared to the same period the previous year.

Here’s how the numbers for January–March have evolved over the past four years:

• 2022: 8,508 vehicles worth $189.3 million
• 2023: 10,489 vehicles worth $144.9 million
• 2024: 22,210 vehicles worth $332.2 million
• 2025: 6,950 vehicles worth $115.1 million

One key reason for this sharp decline in passenger vehicle imports is believed to be the launch of the Piskent testing ground. With stricter vehicle compliance assessments now required and the only authorized testing lab located in Piskent, the lab's capacity appears insufficient to meet real demand. Consequently, many imported vehicles may be stuck in customs warehouses.

It’s also important to highlight that there is currently only one such laboratory in the entire country – located in Piskent. This means entrepreneurs and individuals across Uzbekistan must transport their imported vehicles by tow truck or trailer to Piskent and return them afterward, regardless of whether they’re located in Andijan or Khorezm. This involves significant costs and logistical hassles. If the waiting time for an appointment gets extended, vehicle owners must continue paying daily fees at customs warehouses – an additional financial burden.

Although officials have mentioned plans to open additional laboratories in other regions, it remains uncertain when – or if – this will actually happen.