In recent years, Uzbekistan has witnessed a rapid increase in the number of motor vehicles. While in 2021 the country had 3.14 million registered cars, by 2025 their number had grown by 66%, reaching 5.2 million. This sharp rise is particularly evident in Tashkent, where the expanding vehicle fleet directly affects air quality and public health, according to the Uzbek Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change.
Particular concern is raised by vehicles running on low-octane AI-80 gasoline. Its use results in significantly higher emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, hydrocarbons, and PM2.5 particles compared to higher-quality fuel.
The international community is taking measures to reduce harmful emissions from transport. The European Union strictly regulates automotive fuel quality through the Euro standards. Introduced in 2005, the Euro-4 standard restricted the use of low-grade fuels, including AI-80 gasoline.
In CIS countries, the use of AI-80 has also been prohibited, with tax incentives introduced for the import of electric vehicles. Afghanistan remains the only exception, with this type of fuel still being widely used.
In light of increasing environmental risks, Uzbekistan is steadily moving toward phasing out low-octane fuel. According to a presidential decree, the use and sale of AI-80 gasoline will be restricted by the end of 2025. At the same time, special attention is being paid to ensuring that the population has access to high-quality, environmentally friendly and affordable fuel.
On September 2, JSC Uzbekneftegaz ceased offering AI-80 on commodity exchanges, while increasing the supply of AI-92 gasoline.
Thus, Uzbekistan is gradually aligning with global trends aimed at reducing harmful emissions from transport. The phase-out of AI-80 is a step toward cleaner air, safeguarding public health, and building a green economy.
