Tashkent is hosting the annual meeting of the Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN AGM 2025) – marking the first time in the organization’s history that the event is being held in Central Asia.

The event is organized jointly by the GEN Secretariat and the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan. It brings together more than 60 delegates from 25 countries, including heads of national ecolabelling systems, representatives of international organizations, and leading experts.

Holding this forum in Uzbekistan reflects the results of the country’s consistent environmental policy implemented under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. In recent years, Uzbekistan has achieved significant progress in developing its environmental certification system, promoting the production of export-oriented goods, and advancing the national “Yashil Belgi” (Green Label) initiative.

By a corresponding Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of January 20, 2025, Uzbekistan introduced a voluntary environmental labelling system for products and services. Within a short period, 22 national standards were approved, the Yashil Belgi (Green Label) system was developed, and incentives were established for certified products. The country also obtained the status of an associate member of the Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN). The first product samples have already received the national ecolabel, strengthening the country’s position as an active participant in global green initiatives.

The event will continue until October 17.

Shakhnoza Mamaturopova, UzA