Cash Payment System for Alcohol Products Expected to be Restored

The restoration of cash payments for alcohol products in catering establishments, cafes, restaurants, and hotels is being widely discussed in Uzbekistan, according to Zamin.uz. This topic was raised as a key issue during a recent open dialogue with entrepreneurs.

Business representatives emphasized that the current mandatory cashless payment system causes significant difficulties and misunderstandings, particularly when dealing with foreign tourists. The leadership of the Tax Committee responded to the issue, stating that a solution will be found soon and the current regulations will be reviewed.

According to officials, technical and organizational shortcomings have created inconvenient situations for customers. Responsible authorities acknowledged the oversight and promised to rectify the situation and simplify the payment system in the coming days.

Under current regulations, while customers can pay for food in cash, they are forced to use bank cards for alcohol purchases. This situation creates confusing scenarios, especially for tourists visiting the country.

Representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry also noted the negative impact of this regulation on the tourism sector. If a foreign tourist wishes to buy a drink at a hotel with cash, they are forced to open a local bank card, which lowers service quality and causes dissatisfaction among guests.

It is reported that the Tax Committee has prepared a draft document to allow both cash and cashless payments for alcohol sales in restaurants and hotels. The document is currently in the coordination stage with relevant agencies.

As a reminder, an exclusively cashless payment system for the sale of alcohol and tobacco products was introduced in Uzbekistan on April 1 of this year. The new initiative aims to partially ease these regulations and create a more favorable environment for entrepreneurs.