Uzbekistan plans to strengthen control over the e-commerce sector, particularly regarding trade turnover conducted through foreign online stores and marketplaces. The Tax Committee has prepared a procedure for the transfer of anonymized data on the turnover and transactions of e-commerce operators.
This was announced on May 18 at a Senate meeting by Yigitali Narziyev, advisor to the chairman of the Tax Committee. He noted that the document is being developed in accordance with a presidential decree and aims to increase transparency in the electronic trade market.
Once the new procedure is approved, tax authorities will be able to automatically receive data on electronic payments, turnover, and transactions. This includes payments made to foreign companies, which will help in accurately calculating taxes and determining real turnover in e-commerce.
Importantly, data will be transmitted in an anonymized form. The primary goal is to analyze trade turnover, transaction volumes, and tax-related indicators rather than users' personal information.
There are also plans to implement a mechanism for tax registration of foreign legal entities selling goods through marketplaces. This means that if foreign online stores are actively trading in the Uzbekistan market, they must fulfill their tax obligations as prescribed.
If foreign companies refuse to pay taxes or fail to comply with established requirements, a mechanism to restrict their operations may be introduced. This is seen as a step toward creating a level playing field for both local and foreign businesses.
In recent years, online trade in Uzbekistan has been developing rapidly. Along with local marketplaces, purchasing through foreign online stores has become popular. Consequently, state authorities are paying special attention to ensuring tax discipline, transparent accounting, and legal turnover in this market.
Such a system is also important for local entrepreneurs. If foreign sellers compete in the market without paying taxes, local businesses may be at a disadvantage. The new mechanism will help standardize competition rules.
In short, control over the turnover of foreign online stores and e-commerce operators in Uzbekistan will be strengthened. Tax authorities will receive automatic data on transactions, and foreign companies may be required to register for tax purposes. Online trade is growing, so rules must not remain stuck in the “offline” era.
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