It was noted that today freelance programmers working in Uzbekistan widely use international electronic platforms to sell their software products and digital content to foreign clients. While payments are made using bank cards or bank transfers on some major platforms, on platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, Envato, Storyblocks, payments can only be made via PayPal.
However, currently, bank cards issued in Uzbekistan are not fully functional in the PayPal system. This restriction is related to the requirement to store information only on the territory of Uzbekistan, which is established by the legislation of our country, in particular the Law "On Personal Data". As a result, the access of international payment systems to the Uzbek market is limited to a certain extent.
The amendments to the Law eliminate such problems. It provides support for the functioning of international online payment systems in our country, accelerating the development of fintech, e-commerce and the digital economy, creating legal and transparent payment mechanisms for freelancers, and expanding contactless payment opportunities for foreign tourists.
The Law stipulates that only specific categories of data (data related to biometric, genetic and telecommunication services) should be stored on the territory of Uzbekistan.
Clear security requirements are introduced for the transfer and storage of other data abroad. The Cabinet of Ministers is given the authority to approve the list of States in which personal data protection is ensured.
According to the senators, the Law helps to improve the legal and regulatory framework in the field of e-commerce development and create more comfortable conditions for the population and business entities in using international Internet platforms.
Following the discussion, the senators approved the Law.
