Uzbekistan Import Restrictions

In order to enter Uzbekistan, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Uzbekistan government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the Uzbekistan, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan, a central Asian nation, has an import system designed to regulate the flow of goods into the country to protect local industries, ensure national security, safeguard public health, and adhere to international agreements. The country’s import policies are reflective of its economic objectives and trade relations with other countries. Over the years, Uzbekistan has made significant strides to modernize its economy, and this includes enhancing the framework for import controls and regulations. As part of its integration into the global economy, Uzbekistan has also committed to aligning with international trade norms while protecting domestic sectors that may need safeguarding from foreign competition.

Uzbekistan’s import restrictions vary based on the nature of the goods, with some items being completely prohibited and others subject to specific licensing requirements. These restrictions aim to ensure the health, safety, and security of both the population and the environment, while supporting the growth of local businesses. Businesses that wish to import goods into Uzbekistan must comply with these regulations and be familiar with the necessary procedures for customs clearance.

Objectives of Uzbekistan’s Import Restrictions

The core objectives of Uzbekistan’s import restrictions include:

• Economic Protection: To protect and support local industries by regulating foreign competition, particularly in sectors that are essential for the development of the country’s economy.
• Public Safety and Health: To ensure that products entering Uzbekistan meet safety and health standards, particularly for food, medicine, and hazardous materials.

Prohibited Items for Import into Uzbekistan

Certain products are completely prohibited from entering Uzbekistan due to their potential risks to national security, public health, or the environment. These products are tightly controlled by Uzbekistan’s government, and attempting to import them without permission may lead to legal penalties, including fines or the seizure of goods.

Narcotics, Drugs, and Controlled Substances

Uzbekistan, in line with its obligations under international drug control treaties, prohibits the importation of narcotics and illegal drugs. This includes recreational drugs such as cannabis, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. The country has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drug trafficking, and any attempt to import narcotics without proper authorization is considered a criminal offense.

Uzbekistan has strict regulations governing the importation of controlled substances, including chemicals and pharmaceuticals that could potentially be misused. Businesses involved in the import of chemicals or substances that have potential narcotic effects must obtain the necessary licenses and demonstrate that the products are being used for legitimate purposes, such as for medical or industrial applications.

Weapons, Ammunition, and Explosives

The importation of weapons, ammunition, explosives, and other military-grade items is heavily restricted in Uzbekistan. This includes firearms, explosives, bombs, and military equipment. The import of these items is strictly controlled by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other relevant authorities to prevent illegal arms trafficking and ensure national security.

Any attempt to import weapons or explosives without the proper government approval could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment. Legal imports of firearms and military equipment typically require the importer to have a special license or permit from the government. These items are subject to extensive security checks and inspections, both at the border and within the country.

Pornographic Material and Obscene Publications

Uzbekistan has strict laws governing the importation of pornographic or obscene materials. The importation of explicit content, including books, films, or digital media that are deemed immoral or offensive under Uzbek cultural and religious norms, is prohibited. The government enforces these laws to protect social values and maintain public order.

Importing pornographic material or content that could be considered offensive to the public or immoral is a punishable offense. This includes any form of media, including print and digital publications, which may undermine the cultural and social standards upheld by the country. Any businesses or individuals caught importing such materials face legal action, including confiscation of the goods and potential fines.

Counterfeit Goods and Intellectual Property Violations

Uzbekistan actively protects intellectual property rights and adheres to international intellectual property treaties, such as those governed by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). As a result, the country prohibits the importation of counterfeit goods that infringe on patents, trademarks, and copyrights. This includes fake branded products, pirated software, counterfeit electronics, and other products that violate intellectual property laws.

The importation of counterfeit goods not only undermines legitimate businesses but can also pose a risk to consumer health and safety, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals and electronics. Therefore, the government imposes severe penalties for the importation of counterfeit goods, which could include confiscation of the goods, monetary fines, and legal prosecution of the offenders.

Hazardous Waste and Pollutants

Uzbekistan has stringent environmental protection laws that regulate the importation of hazardous waste, pollutants, and other toxic substances. Goods that may pose a significant threat to the environment or public health, such as industrial chemicals, radioactive materials, or waste products, are prohibited from being imported into the country. These restrictions are in place to prevent environmental degradation and minimize the risks posed by hazardous materials.

The Ministry of Ecology and Environmental Protection monitors and enforces regulations regarding the import of chemicals and waste products. Importers wishing to bring in any materials deemed hazardous must undergo a rigorous approval process, including safety assessments and environmental impact evaluations.

Endangered Species and Wildlife Products

As part of its commitment to international environmental agreements, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Uzbekistan prohibits the importation of products derived from endangered species. This includes products made from ivory, fur, and other materials sourced from animals at risk of extinction. The government’s efforts are aimed at preventing illegal wildlife trade and protecting biodiversity.

The importation of wildlife products from endangered species, including exotic animals, animal parts, and items made from endangered species, is strictly controlled. Any such goods that are imported without proper permits or documentation can be confiscated, and the importers could face legal action. These restrictions are enforced in alignment with global conservation efforts to protect threatened species and ecosystems.

Products Requiring an Import License

While some goods are completely prohibited, many others can be imported into Uzbekistan with the appropriate licensing. These goods are typically subject to strict regulatory oversight to ensure they meet the country’s safety, health, environmental, and security standards. Importers must apply for a license to bring certain products into the country.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices

The importation of pharmaceutical products and medical devices is highly regulated in Uzbekistan. These products must be registered with the Ministry of Health and other relevant authorities before they can be imported. This registration process involves submitting detailed documentation about the product’s safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing process.

Importers of pharmaceutical products and medical devices must provide certification and quality assurance documentation. This is to ensure that the products meet Uzbekistan’s health and safety standards. Pharmaceuticals, especially controlled substances such as narcotics and psychotropic drugs, require special permits for importation, and any violations of these regulations could result in severe legal penalties.

For medical devices, importers must ensure that the products meet the required standards for use in the country’s healthcare system. These include items such as diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments, and other medical supplies that need to be tested and certified by relevant authorities before being approved for sale.

Key Requirements for Medical Imports:

• Registration with the Ministry of Health
• Certification of compliance with safety standards
• Approval from the relevant regulatory authorities

Food and Agricultural Products

The importation of food products and agricultural goods is also subject to licensing in Uzbekistan. The country regulates the import of food to ensure that products are safe for consumption and meet local health standards. This includes meats, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and grains, as well as processed foods.

To prevent the introduction of diseases or pests that could harm Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector, food imports must undergo strict inspection procedures. The State Veterinary Committee and the Ministry of Agriculture are responsible for overseeing the importation of food and agricultural products. Importers are required to provide health certificates and phytosanitary certificates for products such as meat and fresh produce to ensure they are free from contamination.

Certain food products may also require quarantine upon arrival, particularly if they are considered high-risk in terms of pests or diseases. The government also imposes quality control checks on food labeling and packaging to ensure that they meet local standards, including requirements for ingredient lists and nutritional information.

Examples of Food Products Requiring Import Licenses:

• Meat and Meat Products
• Dairy and Eggs
• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
• Processed Foods

Chemicals and Industrial Products

Uzbekistan imposes licensing requirements for the importation of chemicals, industrial products, and machinery, especially those that could pose risks to human health, the environment, or safety. Importers of chemicals must obtain a license from the Ministry of Ecology and Environmental Protection, which assesses the environmental impact of the products. This is particularly relevant for chemicals used in manufacturing, agriculture, and construction.

Additionally, industrial machinery and equipment are also regulated to ensure they meet safety and operational standards. For example, electrical and mechanical machinery must comply with local safety regulations, and certain industrial products may require inspection or testing upon arrival.

Companies seeking to import hazardous chemicals must provide detailed information about their chemical composition, usage, and safety precautions to ensure compliance with Uzbekistan’s environmental and safety regulations.

Customs Procedures and Documentation

All goods entering Uzbekistan must go through the customs clearance process. This involves submitting the necessary documentation and paying any applicable duties or taxes. Customs procedures are enforced by the State Customs Committee of Uzbekistan, which ensures that imports comply with national laws and regulations.

Required Documentation for Importing Goods

When importing goods into Uzbekistan, the following documents are generally required:

• Commercial Invoice: A detailed invoice listing the value, quantity, and description of the imported goods.
• Certificate of Origin: This document verifies where the goods were produced and is necessary for ensuring compliance with trade agreements or tariff regulations.
• Import License: For goods that require licensing, the importer must submit an import license issued by the relevant government authority.
• Health and Safety Certificates: For food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural products, importers must provide health and safety certificates verifying that the goods meet local standards.

In the case of hazardous materials or industrial chemicals, importers must also provide environmental impact assessments or safety data sheets.

Customs Duties and Taxes

In addition to import licensing, goods entering Uzbekistan are subject to customs duties and taxes. The duties vary depending on the type of product and its classification in the customs tariff system. Uzbekistan applies value-added tax (VAT) on imported goods, and some products may also be subject to excise taxes, particularly luxury items or products that could have a significant environmental impact.

Customs duties are calculated based on the customs value of the goods, which includes the cost of the goods, shipping fees, and insurance. Importers must ensure that they comply with Uzbekistan’s customs valuation methods to avoid delays or issues during the customs clearance process.

Customs Inspections and Enforcement

Customs officials in Uzbekistan conduct routine inspections of imported goods to ensure they comply with local laws and regulations. These inspections may include verifying documentation, inspecting physical samples of the goods, and conducting safety or quality checks. For some regulated products, such as food or pharmaceuticals, additional testing may be required before the goods can be cleared for sale.

If any discrepancies are found or if goods do not meet the necessary regulatory standards, they may be confiscated or returned to the exporter. In some cases, penalties may be imposed for failing to comply with import regulations, including fines or other legal actions.

Trade Agreements and Impact on Import Restrictions

Uzbekistan is a member of several regional trade organizations, including the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and has developed bilateral trade agreements with numerous countries. These trade agreements often help to streamline the importation process and reduce tariffs on certain products.

CIS Trade Agreements and Import Preferences

As a member of the CIS, Uzbekistan benefits from preferential trade terms within the region. Goods imported from other CIS countries may face reduced tariffs, making it easier and more affordable to trade within this group. However, imports from non-CIS countries may still be subject to higher tariffs or additional regulations.

Bilateral Agreements and Import Licenses

In addition to its regional trade agreements, Uzbekistan has entered into bilateral trade agreements with various countries. These agreements typically focus on reducing trade barriers and promoting the exchange of goods and services. Depending on the nature of the product, these agreements may provide exemptions or reductions in tariffs and licensing requirements.