New Strict Law Adopted on Precious Stones and Metals
Uzbekistan has adopted a new, strict law that introduces administrative and criminal liability for the illegal acquisition or sale of precious metals and stones. Amendments to the Criminal Code now classify these actions as criminal offenses, especially if prior administrative penalties were applied, and officially define precious metals and stones. Violators may face confiscation of items, administrative arrest for up to 15 days, or fines equivalent to 10 to 20 times the base calculation amount. The law took effect immediately upon its official publication.
Photo: DALL-E
Administrative and criminal liability has been established in Uzbekistan for the illegal extraction or circulation of precious metals and gemstones.
The new law (No. ZRU–1138, dated April 21, 2026) was adopted, introducing relevant amendments and additions to several existing legislative acts.
According to the amendments introduced to the Criminal Code, the illegal acquisition or sale of precious metals and (or) gemstones will result in criminal liability if administrative penalties for such actions have previously been applied.
Furthermore, the legal definitions of "precious metals" and "gemstones" have been officially incorporated into Section VIII of the Criminal Code.
In accordance with the Code of Administrative Responsibility, if such violations are identified, the items involved will be confiscated, and administrative detention for up to 15 days may be applied.
For individuals to whom administrative detention cannot be applied, a fine ranging from 10 to 20 times the base calculated value shall be imposed.
The law entered into force on the day of its official publication.
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