Draft Law on Combating Illegal Drug Trafficking Passed in First Reading

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis reviewed in the first reading a draft law aimed at strengthening liability for the illegal circulation of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and potent chemicals.

The document was prepared in response to a rise in drug-related crimes in the country: over the past five years, the number of detected offenses has doubled, and the volume of seized narcotics and psychotropic substances has increased by 67%. A particular increase was noted in cases involving synthetic drugs.

In 2024, law enforcement agencies discovered five illegal drug laboratories, while in the first ten months of 2025, this number rose to twelve. The draft law aims to enhance legal measures to protect public health and safeguard the nation’s genetic fund.

The document proposes amendments to the Criminal Code, the Criminal Procedure Code, and the Code of Administrative Liability. It includes the introduction of a separate chapter on crimes against public health and the genetic fund, new articles addressing sponsorship of illegal drug trafficking, abuse of official powers, and the establishment of illegal drug laboratories.

Additionally, administrative liability will apply to the use of narcotic, psychotropic, and potent substances in public places. The draft law also strengthens criminal liability measures to prevent repeat offenses.

Deputies emphasized that adopting the draft law is crucial for protecting public health and reinforcing the national genetic fund. The draft law was approved in the first reading.