Aggregation in Uzbekistan’s water and beverage labeling system to be delayed

Uzbekistan will not yet make the new labeling system for water and carbonated drinks, which is designed to track products, mandatory. The proposal was supported by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at a meeting held on May 5, Business Ombudsman Abdumannop Buriyev said in an interview with the Uzbekistan 24 TV channel.

It should be noted that aggregation, a system for digitally tracking large batches of water and non-alcoholic beverages, was introduced on April 1. However, the new requirement caused difficulties and concerns among many market participants.

According to Buriyev, half of the 10 major companies that account for nearly 90 percent of the market are not yet ready to implement the new requirements. Therefore, delaying the system is expected to ease the transition process for businesses.

Another major issue raised by entrepreneurs, the excessively high fines, will also be reviewed. Under the president’s instructions, fines for producers, wholesalers and importers will be reduced. For catering and retail businesses, fines will no longer be tied to revenue but will instead be set at a fixed amount.

It was noted that amendments to tax legislation are being considered to reduce fines for entrepreneurs and, in some cases, not apply them. The introduction of a temporary moratorium is also under consideration.

The meeting also discussed issues related to cash receipts, cashless payments, imports and labor relations. In particular, the need to reduce excessive bureaucracy in hiring and dismissal procedures was emphasized.

Overall, the expected decisions are aimed at improving the business environment and continuing open dialogue with the business community.