Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev has simplified regulations on the movement of foreign currency into and out of the country.
Beginning on January 1, 2018, travelers will not need permission from banks or state financial institutions to take foreign cash out of Uzbekistan if its value does not exceed $5,000, according to a decree issued by Mirziyoev that was made public on December 7.
Currently, those traveling abroad must obtain official permission to take foreign currency out of the country, regardless of the amount.
The decree also says that as of January 1 there will be no need to declare foreign currency when entering or leaving Uzbekistan if its value does not exceed $2,000.
Under current laws, travelers must declare all foreign cash in their possession when entering or leaving the Central Asian country, no matter how small the amount.
Mirziyoev's move is one of numerous initiatives that appear aimed at opening up the tightly controlled former Soviet republic.
Mirziyoev came to power after the death of longtime autocrat Islam Karimov, which was announced in September 2016.
