Despite opposition from environmental activists, the government of Uzbekistan has approved the construction of the Sea Breeze Uzbekistan resort at the Charvak reservoir in the Tashkent region, granting the investor a land plot on a 25-year lease with an extremely low rental fee.
The project, led by Azerbaijani developer Emin Agalarov, will include recreation areas, beaches, sports grounds, hotels, cottages, and residential complexes, as well as stores under international brands and restaurants.
The Sea Breeze Uzbekistan project at Charvak has sparked heated public debate. Some fear it may harm the environment, infringe on citizens’ interests, or place a burden on the state budget.
In response to mounting public concern, the Uzbek Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade has issued a statement saying that the Sea Breeze Uzbekistan project requires no state budget funding, creates a new regional growth hub, is implemented with international standards and government oversight, and fully complies with environmental and urban development regulations.
The ministry believes this is a unique opportunity for Charvak to become a year-round destination for tourism, employment, and high-quality living. The Agalarov Development proposed a $5 billion investment, along with the construction of social infrastructure, environmental solutions, and phased implementation under government oversight. The project is entirely private-funded. No budget money is involved. The investor assumes all financial risks.
Loans are raised on commercial terms, and there is absolutely no increase in public debt. Moreover, the government retains strict oversight at all stages – from environmental compliance to financial transparency and social impact.
The ministry explained the low amount of the rental fee with the fact that it was deliberately reduced to symbolic levels as an investment incentive. In return, the investor will pay a $240 million infrastructure fee – exceeding the land’s market value. The funds will be used for sewage systems, roads, bridges, and water treatment plants.
As to environmental concerns, the ministry assured that discharge of wastewater into Charvak is strictly prohibited, and the investor is building a sewage system at its own expense.
The ministry summarized that the project’s benefits will include thousands of new jobs, new schools, healthcare facilities, and roads, an influx of tourists and foreign currency, growth in tax revenues, greener environment, environmental safeguards, and a long-awaited sewage system for Charvak.
Photo: president.uz
