Article 15. Use of Subsoil Plots Containing Precious Metals and Precious Stones

The right to use subsoil plots containing precious metals and precious stones, for individuals and legal entities, shall arise from the moment they receive, in the prescribed manner, the appropriate permit issued by the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Geology and Mineral Resources.

After the termination of the right to use subsoil plots, individuals and legal entities that have been mining precious metals and precious stones shall be required to take measures to reclaim subsoil plots and bring them into a condition suitable for further use.

In case of non-fulfillment of the obligations provided for in part two of this article, individuals and legal entities that have been mining precious metals and precious stones shall reimburse the local executive authorities on the territory of which the subsoil plots are located for the costs associated with the reclamation of these subsoil plots and bringing them in a condition suitable for further use. The procedure for reimbursement of expenses related to the reclamation of subsoil plots and bringing them into a condition suitable for further use shall be determined by legislation.

Violation of the established procedure for geological study and exploration of subsoil plots for the extraction of precious metals and precious stones shall be the basis for the termination of the permit for the right to use subsoil plots and a ban on engaging in this activity in the manner prescribed by legislation.

The procedure for issuing a permit for the right to use subsoil plots for the extraction of precious metals and precious stones, the conditions for the use of subsoil, as well as measures to eliminate the consequences of subsoil use shall be established by the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On Subsoil”.