Uzbekistan lifts all export restrictions from July 1

At the meeting, the president emphasized creating equal conditions for businesses.

“We must pave the way for our local enterprises, increase production, and create conditions for entering high-value markets with new products,” the president said.

However, it was pointed out that some goods enter Uzbekistan’s markets at artificially low prices, weakening local producers.

For example, a locally produced small refrigerator with a price of $220 is sold for an average of $250, incurring $30 in VAT.

The same refrigerator, imported at an artificially reduced price of $25, incurs only $3 in VAT. Thus, the local producer pays ten times more tax than the importer.

A new decree will fully align the customs valuation of imported goods with international standards.

A marking system has been introduced for products like soft drinks, household appliances, pharmaceuticals, alcohol, and tobacco.

However, cases have been observed where unmarked goods are sold alongside products from compliant entrepreneurs. Not all stores adhere to the marking system, breaking the control chain.

The Tax and Customs Committees were tasked with developing measures to minimize the negative impact of marking on production volumes and strengthening compliance oversight.

It was noted that restrictions on exporting certain high-demand goods in valuable markets have led to missed opportunities.

From July 1, no restrictions will be imposed on the export of any goods. Export duties will only apply to 86 product groups, including raw materials and socially significant products.

This was highlighted as a new opportunity for entrepreneurs.

“One thing must be clearly understood: If entrepreneurs target high-value markets, they will strive to increase production, improve quality, and gain motivation and benefits,” the president concluded.