Uzbektelecom has issued an official statement addressing the international arbitration case filed by Humans Mobile, a Singapore-based company operating in Uzbekistan, over allegations involving the Central Bank of Uzbekistan and Uzbektelecom.
According to the company, Humans Mobile, which functions as a virtual mobile operator, has been providing mobile services in Uzbekistan since 2020 using Uzbektelecom’s network infrastructure under a contractual agreement. Unlike other telecom providers, Humans did not invest in building its own mobile network.
Uzbektelecom refuted claims that it is leveraging its market dominance to pressure Humans.
“The claim that we are using a monopoly position is unfounded,” the statement read. “Humans Mobile has the option to contract with other network providers such as Ucell, Beeline, and Mobiuz, all of which have their own infrastructure.”
The company also addressed Humans’ complaints over alleged high service fees. Uzbektelecom said it has played a major role in lowering internet prices in Uzbekistan.
“Between 2017 and 2024, the cost of 1 Mbit/s of internet for operators and providers was reduced by 40 times, thanks to the expansion of international internet bandwidth,” the company noted.
Despite using Uzbektelecom’s infrastructure for revenue generation, Humans Mobile has reportedly failed to meet its payment obligations.
“The operator has repeatedly violated the terms of its contract by not paying for services rendered, resulting in substantial debt,” Uzbektelecom stated.
The company added that it continued providing services to protect consumer rights.
Due to ongoing non-payment, Uzbektelecom took legal action to recover the debt. On May 8, the Tashkent City Economic Court ruled in favor of Uzbektelecom in a case concerning unpaid service fees by Humans Mobile.
The company warned that if misleading or false information is spread to the public, regulators, or partners, they will pursue legal action to protect their reputation.
Uzbektelecom reiterated its commitment to transparency, fair competition, and constructive dialogue with market participants, including Humans Mobile, provided contractual obligations are honored.
Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Uzbekistan also commented on the arbitration claim. It clarified that the payment company Maroqand, affiliated with Humans, had transferred customer funds to services banned under Uzbek law, including gambling.
As a result, the Central Bank temporarily restricted Maroqand’s operations and forwarded the case to law enforcement for legal review.
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