[Uzbekistan Halts Gold Exports, Resumption Date Uncertain] Uzbekistan, one of the world's largest gold producers, has begun stockpiling its gold output as global geopolitical turmoil drives gold prices to record highs. According to data released by the State Statistics Committee on Monday, the country mines approximately 130 tons of gold annually, but it did not export any non-monetary gold in January, continuing the halt in sales that began late last year. Uzbekistan effectively stopped gold exports after September. There were no export records from November to January, and shipments in October were minimal. When asked about the potential resumption of exports, a representative of Uzbekistan's central bank stated in an email that decisions regarding gold operations are based on "a comprehensive assessment of global market conditions, precious metal price trends, and the current macroeconomic situation." He noted that it is impossible to determine in advance when gold exports might resume. Uzbekistan's policy may indicate that authorities believe prices could rise further.