Customs Seizes Record Volume of Counterfeit Cigarettes
February 2024 – Customs Seizes Record Volume of Counterfeit Cigarettes
Uzbekistan’s Customs Committee confiscated over 5.7 million illicit cigarette packs in 2023, reflecting an intensified crackdown on contraband and trademark violations.2024 – Court Penalizes Sellers of Counterfeit Auto Parts
Following a complaint by Hyundai and Kia, a Tashkent court fined market sellers for distributing counterfeit parts. The ruling highlights growing judicial support for brand protection efforts in Uzbekistan.
The scale of the operation highlights growing concern over the economic and public health implications of counterfeit tobacco products. Illicit cigarettes not only evade taxes, costing the government substantial revenue, but also often bypass safety and health regulations. As a result, their distribution poses a threat to both consumer well-being and the integrity of the legal marketplace.
Authorities have attributed the increase in seizures to improved intelligence-sharing, closer cooperation with international enforcement bodies, and the deployment of advanced detection technologies at border checkpoints. These efforts reflect Uzbekistan’s broader commitment to curbing smuggling networks and strengthening border control mechanisms, particularly in regions identified as high-risk for counterfeit trade.
This milestone also demonstrates Uzbekistan’s alignment with global trends in anti-counterfeiting enforcement, particularly in sectors like tobacco where illicit trade remains a persistent challenge. The Customs Committee's actions are expected to act as a deterrent to organized smuggling operations and affirm the country’s dedication to protecting IP rights and lawful commerce.