Sale and import of AI-80 gasoline to be banned from December 1

Transportation is a major factor contributing to air pollution in Tashkent, the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change stated during a briefing with journalists on November 22.

According to Committee Chairman Aziz Abduhakimov, AI-80 gasoline was widely used in Uzbekistan to save money, but it has caused significant harm to air quality.

“From December 1, the sale and import of AI-80 gasoline will be completely banned. We believe this will be one of the factors that helps improve air quality in Tashkent,” Abduhakimov said.

The briefing also highlighted the rapid increase in the number of vehicles in the capital. Around one million vehicles operate in Tashkent daily. Of these, approximately 650,000 are registered in the city, while 300,000–350,000 come from other regions. Five years ago, the number of vehicles in the city was about half as many, with around 300,000–350,000 vehicles in Tashkent and nearly 100,000 arriving from other regions.

Abduhakimov also discussed the city’s green, yellow, and red sticker system for vehicles. “Not everyone likes this system. Many say the government has come up with yet another measure. However, we believe it is the right solution. In other countries facing similar problems, such systems have been introduced and gradually helped solve transportation-related pollution issues. I think the red and yellow stickers will have a positive impact. We need to gradually remove the most polluting vehicles from circulation,” he said.

It is worth noting that, according to a January 30 decree under the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy and the “State Program on Environmental Protection and the Green Economy,” the use and sale of AI-80 gasoline were to be restricted by the end of this year while ensuring citizens have access to high-quality, environmentally friendly, and affordable fuel. “Uzbekneftgaz” JSC stopped selling AI-80 gasoline through exchange trading from September 2.