In the last month, the prices of new iPhone models in the Uzbekistan market have significantly increased. This was reported by Upl.uz.
In some cases, this increase reached up to 190 dollars. The main reason for the price rise was indicated as the reduction of the customs duty-free import limit for individuals.
According to an analysis conducted by the Kun.uz news agency, the prices of iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and Pro Max models at the large shopping center Malika in Tashkent increased by 8-11 percent within a month. For example, the price of the 1 terabyte model of iPhone 16 Pro Max rose from 1679 dollars to 1799 dollars.
The price increase began in the second half of June. During the period from June 20 to July 20, the price of iPhone 16 increased by 80 dollars or 9.5 percent, iPhone 16 Pro by 100-150 dollars (10.2 percent), and iPhone 16 Pro Max by 120-190 dollars (10.8 percent).
Similar trends were observed in other retail stores as well. Experts link the sharp price increase to the new customs legislation that came into effect on May 1.
The customs duty-free import limit for individuals was reduced from 2000 dollars to 1000 dollars for air passengers and from 1000 dollars to 500 dollars for railway passengers. For example, when importing a 1200 dollar iPhone 16 Pro Max, in addition to the base price, at least 60 dollars in customs fees and 75,000 soums for IMEI registration must be paid.
If the customs declaration is not filled out correctly, the system automatically calculates 30 percent of the customs value, which is 360 dollars, for IMEI registration. The new rules will affect the final price of smartphones in several ways.
Firstly, entrepreneurs are now required to officially declare and pay all customs fees when importing equipment. For a 1200 dollar iPhone Pro Max, this consists of a 10 percent customs fee (120 dollars), a 12 percent value-added tax (144 dollars), and 75,000 soums for the IMEI fee.
As a result, the total cost of this smartphone for the importer reaches approximately 1470 dollars. Secondly, if the seller does not register the IMEI in a timely manner, an additional 30 percent customs fee (360 dollars) may fall on the buyer.
These changes will reduce the illegal import of goods and affect the price structure of high-quality smartphones in the Uzbekistan market. Consequently, all factors are leading to an increase in retail prices, which directly affects the purchasing power of consumers and the availability of high-tech gadgets.
