CRPT Turon, the national operator of the digital product labeling and traceability information system in Uzbekistan, has responded to an appeal from the beverage and juice producers association UzBev regarding risks associated with the introduction of aggregation (tracking group packaging) in the digital labeling system for water and soft drinks from April 1. In its statement, the company noted that the arguments presented by the industry association "require more responsible and in-depth consideration, taking into account international experience, real market needs, and the goals of reforms outlined in the 'Digital Uzbekistan — 2030' program."
CRPT Turon called on all stakeholders not to speculate on possible technical and other inconveniences at the initial stage of implementing the digital labeling system, but to jointly and consistently defend the principles of economic transparency and support consumers' rights to quality and verified products. It was noted that the statement did not address all questions raised by UzBev.
The "Asl Belgisi" system is not new or unique. Uzbekistan largely relies on already proven international models. For example, the United States has the Drug Supply Chain Security Act system, the European Union operates the EU Falsified Medicines Directive and EU Food Traceability System, and Russia uses the "Chestnыy znak" system. Thus, the introduction of labeling is part of a global trend.
Practical data and international experience show that digital labeling does not slow down industry development but contributes to its growth. In 2025, beverage production volume in Uzbekistan reached 29.3 trillion soums, a 9.9% increase compared to 2024, refuting claims about the negative impact of the mechanisms being introduced.
Digital labeling primarily affects the shadow segment — counterfeit products, hidden import schemes, and unscrupulous market participants. As a result, honest producers benefit, competition intensifies, and consumer trust increases. Global experience shows that no country has experienced product shortages after implementing labeling.
According to CRPT Turon, aggregation has already been implemented by all importers and most producers, including Natural Juice, Marwin Brands, Hydrolife, Chortoq Mineral Water, Aqua Products, and other market participants. Thus, aggregation is a technically feasible and already operational mechanism.
The deadlines for introducing the mandatory aggregation and traceability system for water and soft drinks have been postponed several times: from December 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023, then to April 1, 2024, to November 1, 2024, and finally to April 1, 2026. This demonstrates the phased adaptation of the system to real market conditions and provides participants with sufficient time for technical preparation. CRPT Turon is conducting online and offline seminars for participants.
Today, the digital labeling system is becoming an important factor in protecting Uzbekistan's domestic market and forming a modern, transparent, and competitive economic environment. In this sense, digital labeling of water and beverages is not a temporary measure but a strategic investment aimed at ensuring quality, safety, and trust in the market.
Source: www.gazeta.uz