JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
ISSN: 2181-4341, IMPACT FACTOR ( RESEARCH BIB ) – 7,245, SJIF – 5,431
ILMIY METODIK JURNAL
Zafarbek Ergashov
Tashkent State University of Law Faculty of International Law and Comparative Legislation,
fourth-year student
zafarbekergashov151025@gmail.com
LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF 5G TECHNOLOGY
Abstract:
The article explores the legal foundations for the implementation of 5G technology in
Uzbekistan, focusing on the regulatory and infrastructural frameworks necessary for its
deployment. Key elements such as spectrum allocation, infrastructure sharing, data protection,
and cybersecurity are discussed in detail. The article examines existing telecommunications laws
and recent policy changes, including the "Digital Uzbekistan – 2030" strategy, which lays the
groundwork for 5G rollout across the country. The role of public-private partnerships and the
impact of 5G on digital transformation, smart services, and IoT applications are also highlighted.
Keywords:
5G technology, Uzbekistan, legal framework, telecommunications law, spectrum
allocation, infrastructure sharing, Digital Uzbekistan, cybersecurity, data protection, public-
private partnerships, IoT, mobile broadband.
INTRODUCTION
The implementation of 5G technology in Uzbekistan is set to transform the country's digital
landscape. As uztelecom.uz, the national telecommunications operator, spearheads this
technological revolution, it brings unprecedented opportunities for enhanced mobile Internet,
faster data speeds, and improved connectivity. This advancement aligns with the Digital
Uzbekistan initiative, promising to boost e-government services, smart manufacturing, and the
Internet of Things (IoT).
Navigating the legal foundations for 5G implementation in Uzbekistan involves understanding
key regulations and policies. These include the Law on Telecommunications (2018), the Law on
Information Security (2021), and the Law on Personal Data (2019). The article will explore
spectrum allocation, infrastructure development, and cybersecurity considerations. It will also
examine the transition from non-standalone 5G networks to 5G-Advanced technology,
highlighting the crucial role of mobile broadband in shaping Uzbekistan's digital future.
OVERVIEW OF 5G TECHNOLOGY AND ITS POTENTIAL IN UZBEKISTAN
Definition and benefits of 5G
5G, the fifth generation of mobile telecommunications, represents a significant leap forward in
wireless technology. Building upon its predecessor 4G (LTE), 5G enables substantially faster
data transmission with minimal latency, opening up entirely new application areas . This
advanced communication standard goes beyond digital telephony and fast mobile internet,
addressing the increasing global data traffic driven by streaming, big data, and the Internet of
Things (IoT).
The benefits of 5G technology are numerous and far-reaching. It promises to set new standards
in terms of data speed, network capacity, response time, reliability, and data security, enabling
real-time data communication for the first time . Theoretically, 5G technology can achieve data
JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
ISSN: 2181-4341, IMPACT FACTOR ( RESEARCH BIB ) – 7,245, SJIF – 5,431
ILMIY METODIK JURNAL
rates of up to 20 Gbit/s, making it up to 20 times faster than the previous generation. This
remarkable speed enhancement means that transferring a highresolution movie at peak download
speeds could take just six seconds, compared to seven minutes with 4G.
One of the most significant advantages of 5G is its ultra-low latency, with round-trip data
transmission taking less than five milliseconds. This minimal delay opens up possibilities for
remote control of devices in near-real time, making it ideal for applications in agriculture,
manufacturing, and logistics. Moreover, 5G is expected to deliver up to 1,000 times more
capacity than 4G, creating fertile ground for IoT development.
Current state of telecommunications in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan has been making significant strides in improving its telecommunications
infrastructure. As of January 2022, the total length of fiber-optic communication lines in the
country reached 118 thousand kilometers, marking a nearly six-fold increase since 2017. This
expansion has greatly enhanced the country's digital connectivity, with the overall bandwidth
speed of international networks increasing more than 28-fold – from 64.2 to 1800 Gbit/s.
The mobile communication sector in Uzbekistan has also seen remarkable growth. By the end of
2022, the number of mobile communication subscribers reached 31.3 million, with mobile
broadband Internet coverage extending to 98 percent of the population. The country has installed
8,300 new mobile stations in 2022 alone, bringing the total to 54,200 units and achieving a 99
percent mobile communication coverage across the republic.
Government's vision for digital transformation
The government of Uzbekistan has prioritized digitalization and the development of information
and communication technologies (ICT) since the early 2000s. This commitment is evident in the
implementation of several key initiatives, including the integrated program of National
Information and Communication System Development 2013-2020, the National Action Strategy
on Five Priority Development Areas 2017-2021, and the "Digital Uzbekistan – 2030" Strategy.
These efforts have yielded tangible results. According to the State Committee of the Republic of
Uzbekistan on Statistics, the gross value added in the field of Information and communication
increased more than twofold during 2017-2021, reaching 11.8 trillion UZS (over 1 billion US
dollars) in 2021. The government's vision extends to the development of e-government services,
with 56% of public services now provided through the portal of interactive public services as of
January 2022.
The adoption of the "Digital Uzbekistan – 2030" Strategy and its implementation roadmap in
2020 has created a legal basis for the transition to a digital economy. This strategy encompasses
priority areas such as the development of digital infrastructure, e-government, the national digital
technology market, and education and advanced training in the field of information technology.
As Uzbekistan continues to invest in its digital future, the introduction of 5G technology
promises to play a crucial role in realizing the country's vision for comprehensive digital
transformation.
LEGAL FRAMWEWORK FOR 5G IMPLEMENTATION
Existing telecommunications laws
JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
ISSN: 2181-4341, IMPACT FACTOR ( RESEARCH BIB ) – 7,245, SJIF – 5,431
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The legal landscape for telecommunications in Uzbekistan is primarily governed by the Law on
Telecommunications, which was recently adopted in a new edition. This law aims to provide
conveniences to both the population and entities operating in the telecommunications sector. One
significant change is that the construction of buildings and structures now requires modern
telecommunications infrastructure, addressing previous challenges faced by residents.
The law also allows operators to share telecommunications infrastructure facilities, promoting
efficiency and cost-effectiveness in network deployment. Furthermore, it has simplified the
licensing process for certain services. For instance, a license is no longer required to operate in
the telecommunications sector when providing services through applications of banks, payment
systems, payment organizations, or e-commerce platforms.
Recent policy changes to enable 5G
Uzbekistan has been taking steps to facilitate the implementation of 5G technology. The "Digital
Uzbekistan – 2030" Strategy, adopted in 2020, has created a legal basis for the transition to a
digital economy. This strategy encompasses priority areas such as the development of digital
infrastructure, e-government, and the national digital technology market.
In line with this strategy, Uzbekistan has begun the process of increasing mobile Internet speeds
and introducing 5G technology throughout the country. As part of this initiative, more than 3,000
existing base stations across Uzbekistan will be modernized using the latest technologies, and
more than 2,000 new base stations will be built and put into operation.
The government has also outlined key tasks in the Uzbekistan 2030 strategy, which includes
systematic work to cover the city of Tashkent, the Republic of Karakalpakstan, and regional
centers with a fifth-generation (5G) communications network. Progress has already been made,
with Tashkent and Samarkand fully covered by 5G and provided with high-speed LTE networks
in 2023.
Regulatory bodies overseeing 5G rollout
The primary regulatory div overseeing the telecommunications sector, including the 5G rollout,
is the Ministry for the Development of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This
ministry serves as the licensing authority in the field of telecommunications and is responsible
for policymaking, regulation, and content provision.
1. The ministry's responsibilities include:
2. Implementing a unified state policy on information technologies and communications
3. Developing and modernizing telecommunications infrastructure
4. Ensuring the implementation of state programs on "e-government"
5. Coordinating the development of the national segment of the Internet
6. Implementing measures to ensure information security
Another important regulatory div is Uzkomnazorat, created in November 2018 to oversee
compliance with ICT-related legislation.
The licensing process for telecommunications activities is carried out in accordance with the
Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan 'On licensing, permitting and notification procedures' and the
Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated February 21, 2022 №80. The Department of
Licensing and Analysis of the Execution of License Agreements within the Ministry for Digital
JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
ISSN: 2181-4341, IMPACT FACTOR ( RESEARCH BIB ) – 7,245, SJIF – 5,431
ILMIY METODIK JURNAL
Technologies handles the acceptance of applications for obtaining licenses, organizes meetings
of expert groups on licensing issues, and registers licenses.
As Uzbekistan continues to develop its 5G infrastructure, these regulatory bodies will play a
crucial role in ensuring the smooth implementation of the technology while adhering to legal and
security requirements. The legal framework and recent policy changes demonstrate Uzbekistan's
commitment to embracing 5G technology and its potential to transform the country's digital
landscape.
SPECTRUM ALLOCATION AND LICENSING
Available spectrum bands for 5G
The implementation of 5G technology in Uzbekistan requires careful allocation of spectrum
bands to ensure optimal performance and coverage. While specific details about Uzbekistan's
spectrum allocation for 5G are limited, the country is likely to follow international trends in
spectrum usage for 5G networks.
Globally, 5G networks typically operate on three main spectrum bands: low-band (sub-1 GHz),
mid-band (1-6 GHz), and high-band (mmWave). Each band offers different characteristics in
terms of coverage and capacity. The lowband provides extensive coverage but lower speeds,
mid-band offers a balance of coverage and capacity, while high-band delivers extremely high
speeds but limited coverage.
In many countries, the 3.5 GHz band has emerged as a popular choice for initial 5G deployments
due to its balance of coverage and capacity. For instance, in Kazakhstan, a neighboring country,
three lots of 100 MHz each around 3.5 GHz were planned for auction in May 2022. Uzbekistan
may consider similar allocations to align with regional trends and ensure compatibility with
global 5G ecosystems.
Licensing process for operators
The licensing process for telecommunications operators in Uzbekistan is overseen by the
Ministry for the Development of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This
process is governed by the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan 'On licensing, permitting and
notification procedures' and the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated February 21, 2022
№80.
For 5G spectrum licensing, Uzbekistan may adopt a competitive auction process, similar to other
countries in the region. The decision to hold such auctions would likely be made by the
Interdepartmental Coordinating Commission for Improving and Increasing the Efficiency of
Information Activities and Data Transfer, based on proposals from the Ministry for Digital
Technologies.
Potential licensees would need to submit detailed applications, including:
1. Proof of payment for tender proposal consideration
2. Evidence of a deposit made
3. Documentation of employee qualifications
4. A detailed broadcasting concept (for media-related licenses)
5. Technical compliance certifications
6. Proof of equipment ownership or lease agreements
JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
ISSN: 2181-4341, IMPACT FACTOR ( RESEARCH BIB ) – 7,245, SJIF – 5,431
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The licensing authority typically makes decisions within 10 working days, or 25 working days if
coordination with the Interdepartmental Coordination Commission is required.
Challenges in spectrum reallocation
As Uzbekistan prepares for 5G implementation, it faces several challenges in spectrum
reallocation:
1. Existing spectrum usage: Current spectrum bands may be occupied by other services,
necessitating careful planning for transition or sharing arrangements.
2. Harmonization with global standards: Aligning spectrum allocations with international
norms is crucial for ensuring device compatibility and roaming capabilities.
3. Balancing different spectrum bands: Allocating appropriate amounts of low, mid, and high-
band spectrum to achieve the right mix of coverage and capacity.
4. Infrastructure development: Uztelecom uz, the national telecommunications operator, has
been working on modernizing its network infrastructure. In 2023, the company laid over 60,000
kilometers of fiber-optic communication lines, increasing the total length to more than 227,000
kilometers. This extensive fiber network will be crucial in supporting the backhaul requirements
of 5G networks.
5. Regulatory framework: Developing a comprehensive regulatory framework that addresses
issues such as spectrum sharing, infrastructure sharing, and quality of service requirements for
5G networks.
6. Rural coverage: Ensuring that spectrum allocation and licensing processes promote
coverage in rural areas, not just urban centers.
As Uzbekistan navigates these challenges, it can look to experiences of other countries in the
region. For instance, the successful deployment of 5G in Tashkent and Samarkand by
Uztelecom.uz provides valuable insights for expanding coverage to other parts of the country.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND SHARING REGULATIONS
Rules for 5G network deployment
The deployment of 5G networks in Uzbekistan has a significant impact on the country's digital
landscape. Uztelecom uz, the national telecommunications operator, has been at the forefront of
this technological revolution. The company has made substantial progress in expanding 5G
coverage across the country, with a focus on major urban centers.
In March 2023, Uztelecom uz initiated a large-scale project to increase mobile Internet speeds
and introduce 5G technology throughout Uzbekistan. This ambitious undertaking involves the
modernization of more than 3,000 existing base stations using cutting-edge technologies, as well
as the construction and activation of over 2,000 new base stations. This extensive infrastructure
upgrade has a direct influence on the quality of mobile Internet services, enabling subscribers to
enjoy fifth-generation speeds comfortably.
The first stage of the 5G rollout focused on providing full coverage in Tashkent, the capital city,
along with partial coverage in regional centers. By September 2023, Uztelecom uz had
successfully launched 5G networks in all regional centers of the republic. This rapid expansion
demonstrates the company's commitment to modernizing Uzbekistan's telecommunication
infrastructure and bringing the benefits of 5G technology to a wider population.
Infrastructure sharing policies
JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
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To facilitate the efficient deployment of 5G networks, Uzbekistan has implemented
infrastructure sharing policies. These policies aim to reduce costs, accelerate network rollout,
and promote competition in the telecommunications sector. The Law on Telecommunications,
recently adopted in a new edition, allows operators to share telecommunications infrastructure
facilities. This provision enables more efficient use of resources and helps overcome challenges
in network deployment, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
The infrastructure sharing policies have had a positive influence on the expansion of fiber-optic
communication lines across the country. By 2023, the government aims to increase the capacity
of the international data transmission channel by 3.5 times. This expansion includes the
construction of 150,000 kilometers of fiber-optic communication lines, which will extend to all
settlements in Uzbekistan. The goal is to provide at least 80% of households with broadband
wired Internet access, laying the foundation for widespread 5G adoption.
Public-private partnerships for 5G buildout
Uzbekistan has recognized the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in accelerating
the development of its telecommunications infrastructure, including 5G networks. The country
has implemented a comprehensive PPP strategy encompassing 63 diverse projects across various
sectors. While not all of these projects are specifically focused on 5G, they contribute to the
overall modernization of Uzbekistan's infrastructure, which has a direct influence on the
successful implementation of 5G technology.
The Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan has been actively engaging with global investors to
promote PPP projects in the country's electricity sector. Although these projects primarily focus
on energy infrastructure, they have an indirect impact on 5G deployment by ensuring a stable
power supply for telecommunications equipment.
To streamline the management and implementation of PPP projects, the Ministry of Economy
and Finance is establishing a 'Center for Public-Private Partnership Projects'. This center will
play a crucial role in coordinating funds, managing stakeholder engagement, and ensuring
compliance with both domestic and international standards for infrastructure development,
including those related to 5G networks.
The collaboration between the public and private sectors in Uzbekistan's 5G buildout has a
significant influence on the country's digital transformation goals. By leveraging private capital
and expertise, Uzbekistan aims to accelerate the deployment of 5G infrastructure and enhance
the quality of telecommunications services across the country.
Data Protection and Cybersecurity Considerations
As Uzbekistan embraces 5G technology and digital transformation, data protection and
cybersecurity have become paramount concerns. The implementation of 5G networks brings
unprecedented opportunities for enhanced connectivity and innovation, but it also introduces new
challenges in safeguarding personal information and critical infrastructure.
Privacy laws applicable to 5G networks
In 2019, Uzbekistan adopted the Law on Personal Data to regulate relations in the field of
personal data protection. This law applies to the processing and protection of personal data,
regardless of the means used, including information technology. It establishes fundamental
JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
ISSN: 2181-4341, IMPACT FACTOR ( RESEARCH BIB ) – 7,245, SJIF – 5,431
ILMIY METODIK JURNAL
principles such as the observance of constitutional rights and freedoms, legitimacy of data
processing purposes, and confidentiality and security of personal data.
The law has been further strengthened with the introduction of Article 27-1, which requires
social networks and Internet services to store the personal data of Uzbek citizens on servers
located within the country. This data localization requirement extends to major platforms such as
Facebook, Google, and Telegram, aiming to enhance the security of personal data storage and
boost the country's economic potential.
Cybersecurity requirements for operators
The adoption of the Law "On Cybersecurity" in April 2022 marked a significant milestone in
Uzbekistan's efforts to enhance its digital security framework. This legislation, which came into
force on July 17, 2022, outlines specific obligations for operators of critical facilities, including
those in public administration, military, and energy sectors.
Key requirements for these operators include:
Implementing cybersecurity measures set by the regulator
Ensuring continuous operation of critical facilities
Storing data with backup copies for at least three months
Certifying hardware, firmware, and software
Installing monitoring systems to prevent cyber-attacks and respond to incidents
Reporting incidents and cybercrimes promptly
The State Security Service of Uzbekistan acts as the primary regulator in the cybersecurity
domain, overseeing the implementation of these requirements and coordinating responses to
potential threats.
Cross-border data flow regulations
Cross-border transfer of personal data is addressed in the Law on Personal Data. The law
stipulates that such transfers can only be carried out to foreign states that ensure adequate
protection of the rights of personal data subjects. However, cross-border transfers may be
prohibited or restricted to protect the constitutional order, morality, health, rights, and legitimate
interests of Uzbek citizens, as well as to ensure national defense and state security.
The implementation of data localization requirements has sparked debates about their potential
impact on innovation and international competitiveness. While proponents argue that these
measures strengthen data security and boost the local IT industry, critics point out potential
drawbacks such as increased costs for businesses and potential limitations on consumer choice.
As Uzbekistan continues to develop its 5G infrastructure and digital economy, striking a balance
between data protection, cybersecurity, and innovation remains a critical challenge. The
government's efforts to create a comprehensive legal framework demonstrate its commitment to
addressing these issues while fostering the growth of the country's digital landscape.
CONCLUSION
As Uzbekistan takes steps to implement 5G technology, the country is laying the groundwork for
a digital revolution. The legal framework, spectrum allocation, and infrastructure development
JOURNAL OF IQRO – ЖУРНАЛ ИҚРО – IQRO JURNALI – volume 14, issue 02, 2025
ISSN: 2181-4341, IMPACT FACTOR ( RESEARCH BIB ) – 7,245, SJIF – 5,431
ILMIY METODIK JURNAL
are all coming together to create a robust environment for 5G rollout. What's more, the
government's commitment to digital transformation, as seen in initiatives like the "Digital
Uzbekistan – 2030" Strategy, is paving the way for widespread adoption of this groundbreaking
technology.
Looking ahead, Uzbekistan faces both opportunities and challenges in its 5G journey. Balancing
the need for rapid technological advancement with data protection and cybersecurity concerns
will be crucial to ensure. As the country continues to build its 5G networks, it will be essential to
foster collaboration between public and private sectors, adapt regulations as needed, and keep up
with global technological trends. This forward-thinking approach will help Uzbekistan to fully
harness the potential of 5G, boosting its digital economy and improving the lives of its citizens.
REFERENCES
1. National database of legislation of the Republic of Uzbekistan
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https://www.uzembassy.uk/news/820
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