The government of Uzbekistan has introduced a new regulatory framework for the export of fruit and vegetable products, following a surge in complaints from importing countries, including Russia, and cases of artificial price underreporting by entrepreneurs to evade taxes. According to the Agency for Quarantine and Plant Protection, in 2025, some businesses failed to document products worth $192 million, leading to significant tax revenue losses.

More than 700 complaints were received from importing nations regarding non-compliance with food safety standards, with a substantial number originating from Russia. In January 2026, goods valued at $37.5 million were omitted from export statistics, and Russia alone submitted 45 claims. These incidents exposed systemic flaws in export procedures and underscored the urgent need for regulatory overhaul.

As part of the new framework, a 'Risk Management System' (RMS) is being implemented. Under this system, enterprises will be categorized into three tiers: 'Green Corridor' for companies fully compliant with supply rules; 'Yellow Corridor' for those with recurring violations; and 'Red Corridor' for entities with persistent infractions. Companies in the 'Green Corridor' will benefit from streamlined quarantine controls and expedited export processes.

This export reform holds significant implications for Uzbekistan's foreign trade relations, particularly with Russia. In 2025, bilateral trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Russia increased by 8.5%, reaching $12.986 billion. Russia maintained its status as the largest export partner, with goods and services exports totaling $4.3 billion, nearly 20% higher than in 2024. In January 2026, Uzbekistan's total foreign trade turnover stood at $5.8 billion, with China and Russia remaining the primary partners, accounting for almost half of all trade volume.

Source: podrobno.uz