Uzbekistan: Businesses Not Forced to Remove Existing QR Codes for New System
Starting July 1, 2026, all businesses in Uzbekistan's trade and service sectors will be required to accept payments through a unified QR code system called UzQR. In anticipation of this deadline, many entrepreneurs have begun removing QR codes from their payment terminals that are associated with previously used services. These services include popular platforms such as Payme, Click, and Uzum, among others. The move by businesses suggests a proactive approach to comply with the upcoming mandate. However, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TsB) has clarified that entrepreneurs are not obligated to remove QR codes from other services once the UzQR system is implemented. This clarification aims to alleviate concerns among business owners regarding the transition and the potential need to solely rely on the new system. The UzQR system is intended to streamline payment processes across the country. The deadline for full implementation is set for mid-2026, giving businesses ample time to adapt.
Uzbekistan's introduction of a unified UzQR payment system by July 1, 2026, aims to standardize digital transactions. While businesses are proactively removing existing payment QR codes, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry's clarification indicates flexibility, suggesting that legacy systems may coexist with UzQR. This approach could mitigate immediate operational disruptions for merchants and consumers, allowing for a phased integration. The long-term success of UzQR will likely depend on its user-friendliness, security, and the competitive advantages it offers over established private payment platforms. Navigating this transition requires careful consideration of market dynamics and consumer adoption patterns to ensure the new system enhances, rather than hinders, the efficiency of Uzbekistan's digital economy.
AI-generated to prompt reflection — not editorial opinion, not advice, not a statement of fact. How this works.