Products past their expiration date will not be sold starting from 2026

Starting from March 1, 2026, the sale of products past their expiration date will be technically stopped in Uzbekistan. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

This decision is considered an important reform in the field of consumer rights protection. According to the decree “On effective measures to protect consumer rights,” signed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on October 6, 2023, the sale of expired products in markets and stores will be automatically restricted.

According to the decree, from 2026 onwards, the expiration dates of products with digital labels will be monitored through a QR code system. If a product is expired, payment will not be processed by scanning the QR code during the purchase.

This system automatically blocks the payment, thereby eliminating the possibility of selling or buying expired products. Even if the seller or cashier tries to deliberately pass the product, the electronic terminal will not provide a receipt.

Currently, the digital labeling system in Uzbekistan covers tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, beer, household appliances, medicines, medical supplies, water, and non-alcoholic drinks. More than 115,000 products are registered in the national catalog.

This system not only ensures consumer safety but also helps reduce the circulation of counterfeit and illegal products. According to experts, digital control increases transparency in the market, strengthens trust, and creates a healthy competitive environment.

Additionally, from October 15, 2025, to January 1, 2027, a special pilot project involving non-governmental non-profit organizations will be implemented. This project envisages testing the market situation through “mystery shoppers.”

Furthermore, starting from December 1, 2023, a new electronic platform for online consumer appeals will be launched. This platform will enable citizens to submit complaints and suggestions quickly, transparently, and officially.

The new system will further strengthen cooperation between government agencies, entrepreneurs, and the public. As a result, consumers will actively participate not only as buyers but also as active participants in the market control process.

Source: zamin.uz