Comprehensive Guide to Customs Clearance in Uzbekistan
- Nadira Islamova
- Jun 26
- 7 min read
Updated: Jun 27
Navigating international trade can be complex, and customs clearance is often one of the most challenging hurdles. For businesses shipping to Uzbekistan, understanding the intricacies of its customs regulations is crucial for efficient and compliant import into the country. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the customs clearance process in Uzbekistan, designed to help you avoid delays and ensure a smooth flow of goods.

Understanding Uzbekistan's Customs Landscape
Uzbekistan has been actively modernizing its customs procedures to align with international standards and facilitate trade. However, a robust regulatory framework remains in place to control imports and exports. Key aspects to be aware of include:
Customs Legislation: The primary legal framework governing customs in Uzbekistan is the Customs Code, along with numerous resolutions and decrees issued by the Cabinet of Ministers and the State Customs Committee. Staying updated on these dynamic regulations is vital, as changes can frequently impact import and export procedures. For detailed official information, you can refer to the Uzbekistan Trade Info platform of the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Customs Duties and Taxes: Imports into Uzbekistan are subject to various duties and taxes, including customs duty, excise tax (for specific goods), and value added tax (VAT). The rates are determined by the Harmonized System (HS) code of the goods, their customs value, and the country of origin, often influenced by trade agreements.
Restricted and Prohibited Goods: Certain goods are restricted or entirely prohibited from import or export to protect national security, public health, and environmental interests. It's essential to verify the status of your specific goods against the official lists and obtain any necessary permits or licenses before shipment to avoid penalties, seizure, or forced return to origin. For further information on Uzbekistan trade regulations and customs requirements, you may consult our last mile team at Delta Global Solutions.
Customs Clearance Process in Uzbekistan
Customs clearance process in Uzbekistan requires methodical approach and meticulous attention to detail at each stage:
Documentation Preparation: Accurate, complete, and consistent documentation is paramount and forms the backbone of a swift customs clearance in Uzbekistan. Any discrepancies can lead to significant delays or fines. Essential documents include:
Commercial Invoice: A detailed record of the transaction, specifying the seller, buyer, description of goods, quantity, unit price, total value, currency, Incoterms, and terms of payment.
Packing List: Itemized contents of each package within a shipment, including weight, dimensions, and markings, which assists Uzbekistan Customs in physical inspections.
Bill of Lading (B/L), CMR or Air Waybill (AWB): The transport document issued by the carrier, serving as a contract of carriage, a receipt for goods, and a document of title.
Certificate of Origin: A document that certifies the country where the goods were manufactured or produced. While this is not a mandatory document, it can be helpful in determining applicable tariffs and preferential trade treatment.
Import Licenses and Permits: Required for specific categories of goods, such as pharmaceuticals, certain chemicals, agricultural products, or dual-use items. These must be obtained from the relevant government bodies in Uzbekistan prior to shipment.
Certificates of Conformity / Quality Certificates: Demonstrating that products comply with Uzbekistan's national technical regulations, standards, or safety requirements. These are applied for and obtained locally in Uzbekistan, and are often mandatory for consumer goods, electronics, machinery, and food products.
Contract of Sale/Purchase Agreement: The underlying commercial agreement between the importer and exporter. This document is crucial in determining the customs value of the goods and serves as a value defense instrument.
Customs Declaration: Once all required documents are meticulously prepared, a customs declaration is submitted electronically to the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan's automated information system. This declaration, typically completed by a licensed customs broker such as Delta Global Solutions, provides a comprehensive overview of the goods, their value, origin, classification, and intended use. The accuracy of the HS code classification is critical at this stage as it directly impacts duty and tax calculations.
Customs Control and Inspection: Following the declaration, customs authorities will review the submitted information. They may then opt for various levels of control, which can range from a documentary check to a full physical inspection of the cargo. This can involve:
Documentary Control: Verification of the accuracy and completeness of all submitted documents against the declaration.
Risk Assessment: Uzbekistan customs system employs risk management criteria to identify high-risk shipments that may warrant closer scrutiny.
Physical Inspection: If flagged for inspection, customs officers may conduct scanning (e.g., X-ray), weighing, or a detailed physical examination of the goods to verify their quantity, description, and compliance with declared information and regulatory requirements.
Duty and Tax Payment: Upon successful declaration and satisfactory completion of any required inspections, we proceed to pay the customs duties, excise tax (if applicable), value added tax (VAT), and other associated fees. Goods will not be released until all financial obligations are fully settled.
Release of Goods: After all customs procedures are completed, all financial obligations have been successfully processed, and any required permits or certificates have been verified, customs authorities will allow the release of the goods. This signifies that the cargo is cleared for entry into the customs territory of Uzbekistan and can proceed to its final destination within the country.
How Do You Calculate Customs Duties & Taxes in Uzbekistan
Customs duties, taxes and related fees in Uzbekistan are typically calculated based on the CIF (cost, insurance, freight) value of the goods. This means it includes the cost of the goods, the insurance, and the freight charges to bring the goods to Uzbekistan. Use the following steps for calculating the cost of import into Uzbekistan:
Customs Duty: Customs Duty = CV (Customs Value) x CDR (Customs Duty Rate)
Excise Tax (if applicable): Excise Tax = CV x ETR (Excise Tax Rate)
VAT Taxable Base: VAT Taxable Base = CV + Customs Duty + Excise Tax (if applicable)
VAT: VAT = VAT Taxable Base x VAT Rate (which currently is 12% in Uzbekistan)
Customs Fees: Customs Fees (CF) = CV x Customs Fee Rate (CFR), which is 0.35% in Uzbekistan
Total Customs Payments = Customs Duty + Excise Tax (if applicable) + VAT + Customs Fees.
Of course, you cannot reduce customs clearance in Uzbekistan to a string of formulas. It is important to consider the following when importing into the country:
HS Codes: The Harmonized System (HS) code of your goods is crucial. This code determines the specific customs duty rate and whether other charges such as certification fee applies.
Customs Valuation: While CIF is the standard, be aware that Uzbek Customs may use historical or current market values for assessment if they deem the declared value too low.
Exemptions and Preferential Treatment: Uzbekistan has various exemptions and reduced rates for certain goods (e.g., textile raw materials, specific equipment, goods under free trade agreements). It's essential to check if your goods qualify.
Other Potential Taxes/Fees: Depending on the goods, other fees or permits might be required (e.g., certification fees).
Customs and tax regulations can change. It's always advisable to consult with the official customs authorities in Uzbekistan or a qualified customs broker such as Delta Global Solutions for the most up-to-date and accurate information for your specific import.
How Long Does Customs Clearance Take in Uzbekistan?
Customs clearance in Uzbekistan typically takes between 1 and 3 days, largely due to significant digitalization and reforms. The exact time depends on several key factors:
How Clearance Time Is Determined
Uzbekistan's Automated Risk Management System routes cargo through different "corridors," dictating the level of customs control:
Green Corridor: For low-risk goods, clearance is very fast, often within 30 minutes to a few hours.
Yellow Corridor: Medium-risk goods undergo a documentary review, which takes longer than the green corridor.
Red Corridor: High-risk goods face comprehensive control, including physical inspection, making this the most time-consuming pathway.
Blue Corridor: Less common for commercial cargo, it allows pre-release with subsequent verification, often for trusted traders.
Factors That Impact Your Shipment's Clearance
The time it takes for your shipment to clear customs heavily depends on:
Documentation: Incomplete, incorrect, or inconsistent documents are the biggest cause of delays. You need to make sure everything is accurate.
HS Code Accuracy: Getting the Harmonized System (HS) code right for your goods is crucial to avoid holds.
Type of Goods: Highly regulated items like pharmaceuticals or certain agricultural products might take longer due to extra checks or permits.
Customs Workload: While digital, busy periods or specific border posts can still cause some delays.
Payment Processing: Any delay in paying duties and taxes will hold up your goods.
Professional Broker: Working with an experienced local customs broker, like Delta Global Solutions, can significantly speed up the process by ensuring proper documentation and addressing various complexities.
Customs Challenges in Uzbekistan and How to Overcome Them
Despite ongoing efforts to digitize and streamline the customs processes, businesses may still encounter complexities during customs clearance in Uzbekistan. These can include:
Complexity of Regulations: Uzbekistan’s customs landscape is dynamic, with frequently updated laws and regulations that can be challenging for non-specialists to track and interpret accurately.
Documentation Errors: Even minor inconsistencies, omissions, or inaccuracies in documentation can lead to significant delays, requests for additional information, or even penalties.
Valuation Issues: Disagreements with customs authorities regarding the declared customs value of goods can lead to protracted disputes and increased costs.
Unexpected Delays: Unforeseen circumstances such as administrative backlogs, system issues, or additional inspections can impact delivery timelines and incur demurrage charges.
Partnering with an experienced customs broker with local expertise such as Delta Global Solutions, is the most effective strategy to mitigate these challenges. A knowledgeable partner can:
Ensure Compliance: Expertly navigate the nuanced regulatory framework, ensuring all documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant with current Uzbek customs law.
Streamline Processes: Leverage established relationships with customs officials and utilize efficient, optimized procedures to expedite clearance, aiming for favorable corridor assignments.
Handle Unexpected Issues: Proactively identify and address any problems that arise, providing rapid solutions and minimizing potential disruptions or penalties.
Provide Transparency: Offer clear communication and regular updates throughout the entire customs clearance process, ensuring you are always informed.
Why Choose Delta Global Solutions?
At Delta Global Solutions, we specialize in providing seamless and efficient customs clearance services in Uzbekistan. Our deep understanding of local regulations, coupled with our extensive network, advanced logistical capabilities, and experienced team of customs professionals, enables us to facilitate the smooth passage of your goods through Uzbekistan customs systems. We are committed to transparency, efficiency, and ensuring your shipments reach their destination without unnecessary complications, allowing you to focus on your core business.
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