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Uzbekistan has unveiled a proposal to introduce mandatory digital labeling for vegetable oils starting July 1, 2027. This initiative, detailed in a draft Cabinet of Ministers resolution submitted by the Tax Committee, seeks to mandate that manufacturers, importers, and retailers register with the 'Asl Belgisi' national system to improve product traceability and curb illegal trade practices.
The draft legislation was opened for public consultation on October 9, with the discussion period scheduled to run until October 24. Under the proposed framework, all business entities involved in the production, importation, wholesale, and retail of vegetable oil must provide comprehensive data regarding the movement of labeled products throughout the supply chain. This digital monitoring is intended to prevent the circulation of unauthorized or counterfeit oil products within the domestic market.
According to the technical specifications outlined in the resolution, each product must feature a two-dimensional GS1 DataMatrix code. This identification marker can be printed directly on the packaging or applied via a non-reusable sticker. The regulations stipulate that the code must measure at least 10x10 millimeters, be positioned in a visible location for consumers, and remain scannable without breaching the package integrity.
To facilitate the transition, CRPT Turon LLC, the operator of the Asl Belgisi system, will collaborate with the Tax Committee to supply the necessary equipment for managing digital labeling orders. This equipment is slated to be provided by January 1, 2027, to registered manufacturers and importers who have formalized their participation agreements. Selling vegetable oil without the requisite digital codes will be classified as a violation of trade regulations, subject to legal penalties.
This regulatory move aligns with broader efforts in Uzbekistan to tighten enforcement regarding digital labeling. A separate presidential decree has mandated the development of a law by November 2026 to establish fixed fines for labeling violations in the retail and catering sectors, while also introducing formal warning procedures for initial offenses. The July 2027 implementation date for the vegetable oil sector remains subject to the final adoption of the resolution following the public review process.
Source: Daryo