Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A new requirement has been introduced in Uzbekistan mandating the declaration of mobile devices when imported into the country. Failure to declare will result in the need to pay a customs duty for registering the device in the UzIMEI system.

The Customs Committee of Uzbekistan addressed social media discussions regarding the requirement to declare mobile devices upon entry into the country.

Previously, in October 2023, the Uzbek government eased restrictions on phone imports. Before that, individuals were allowed to import only one phone duty-free every six months. However, starting from 28 January 2024, travelers are permitted to cross the border with two phones during each entry.

The maximum value of one or two phones imported via an airport is limited to US$2,000, while the limit for train crossings is US$1,000, and for car crossings, US$300. If the value exceeds these limits, a 30% duty is applied to the excess amount. For instance, if a phone costs US$2,300, the duty will be calculated on the US$300 excess.

New phones must be declared regardless of whether the import falls within the duty-free limits. If no declaration is made, the owner must pay a 30% customs duty.

The Ministry of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan emphasized that declaration is a mandatory condition for the legal import of devices and their subsequent registration in the UzIMEI system.

Citizens are also advised to check whether devices are registered in the UzIMEI system when purchasing them in markets, stores, or online. If a phone is not registered, customs fees must be paid by the buyer.

“To avoid additional expenses, please indicate the number of phones in your passenger customs declaration, even if it is just one device,” the Customs Committee advised.

In addition to mobile phones and smartphones, tablets and portable devices with SIM modules (including eSIMs) must also be declared.

However, wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, as well as modems, computers, communication modules, terminals, and vehicles with SIM modules, do not require declaration.