In recent years, strict control over the circulation of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and precursors has become one of the key priorities of state policy in the Republic of Uzbekistan. In particular, amid the expansion of activities related to these substances in the fields of healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and foreign trade, ensuring their lawful, safe, and transparent circulation has gained critical importance.

As part of the implementation of the Action Plan for the 2024–2025 National Program aimed at executing the National Strategy to Combat Drug Abuse and Drug-Related Crime in the Republic of Uzbekistan, the results of 2025 summarized by the Committee for Drug Control demonstrated a fundamental renewal of approaches in this area. The digitalization of control mechanisms, strengthening of licensing requirements, and implementation of preventive measures at the regional level indicate the formation of a systematic and comprehensive approach.

Increase in certification volume

Throughout 2025, the Committee for Drug Control issued a total of 108 certificates for the import into and export from the territory of the republic of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and precursors. This figure represents a significant increase compared to 2024.

This growth does not indicate a weakening of control, but rather reflects the clear regulation of procedures and enhanced transparency of processes in this field. According to experts, the effective functioning of certification mechanisms serves as a reliable filter against illegal circulation.

Digital reforms in licensing

The year 2025 marked a turning point in the licensing of activities related to the circulation of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and precursors. Licensing procedures previously conducted through traditional methods were transferred to a dedicated electronic system.

As a result:

• 364 licenses were issued through the electronic system;

• more than 100 meetings of the licensing commission were held;

• 106 applications were rejected;

• in 106 cases, rejected applications were corrected by applicants and resubmitted.

The rejection of applications indicates stricter licensing requirements and confirms that only entities fully compliant with established norms and standards are permitted to operate in this sector. This, in turn, enhances the effectiveness of the control system.

Prevention alongside control

Along with inspection and control measures, awareness-raising and preventive activities played a significant role in the work of the Committee for Drug Control. In 2025, assessments were conducted in 172 medical and preventive healthcare institutions across the Republic of Karakalpakstan, the city of Tashkent, and all regions, and 11 outreach seminars were organized. A total of 1,707 specialists participated in these seminars.

During these activities, practical explanations were provided to responsible personnel regarding identified shortcomings, and the requirements of regulatory documents were explained in detail. This demonstrates the development of an approach focused not only on control, but also on cooperation and prevention.

Conclusion

The outcomes of 2025 indicate that state control over the regulation of the circulation of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and precursors has reached a qualitatively new level. The digitalization of licensing, increased certification activity, and preventive measures implemented at the regional level contribute to the stable functioning of the system.

This approach aims not only to prevent violations, but also to create a safe, responsible, and transparent operational environment in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.