On July 9, 2026, Karakalpakstan took another significant step toward strengthening its position on Uzbekistan’s tourism map. The "QR Gastronomic Quality – 2026" Festival and Competition was held at the "Qaraqalpaq Etno Awıl" tourist complex.

The festival marked the culmination of the "QR Gastronomic Quality" project, implemented by the DMO Karakalpakstan Public Association with financial support from the Public Fund under the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan within the framework of the state social order. The event was organized with the support of the Jokargy Kenes and the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

The festival brought together professional chefs, representatives of the restaurant industry, tourism businesses, experts, and guests, becoming the region’s largest gastronomic event.

The project's main objective is to elevate the quality of the public catering sector in Karakalpakstan, establish gastronomy as one of the region’s key tourism brands, and introduce modern service standards.

As part of the project, six training seminars and three meetings of the Coordination Council were organized. A total of 213 participants, including 117 women, took part in the activities. In addition, 122 participants attended project presentations, 151 young people participated in educational events, and 47 industry representatives joined practical master classes. The project also launched the www.qrgastronomy.uz digital platform and the "QR Gastronomic" mobile application.

During the festival, the ethno village was transformed into a vibrant gastronomic destination. Visitors enthusiastically watched the professional chefs' competition, which featured culinary masters from different regions of Uzbekistan, including talented chefs from the Khorezm region.

Special attention was given to the competition among public catering establishments. Participants showcased signature dishes, modern cooking techniques, high service standards, and creative presentation. The jury evaluated not only the taste and quality of the dishes but also their compliance with contemporary international standards of the hospitality and gastronomy industry.

At the closing ceremony, the best participants received diplomas and valuable prizes. The grand prize for the three best representatives of the gastronomic business was an international internship, providing an opportunity to exchange experience, study global best practices in hospitality, and apply this knowledge to the further development of gastronomic tourism in Karakalpakstan.

The "QR Gastronomic Quality – 2026" Festival clearly demonstrated that gastronomy is not only an important part of cultural heritage but also a powerful driver of tourism, economic development, and the international image of the Republic of Karakalpakstan.