Uzbekistan Destroys Counterfeit Cigarettes Using an Environmentally Friendly Method for the First Time

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — An environmentally safe technology was used for the first time in Tashkent to destroy a large batch of tobacco products seized from illegal circulation.

The operation took place on 16 December at the Uzikkilamchiranglimetal facility in the Sergeli district of the capital, the State Customs Committee of Uzbekistan reported.

As part of the operation, 421,500 packs of cigarettes bearing the brands Business Royal, Elysee, Captain Black, Vertical, Esse Change, and M&J were destroyed.

For the first time in the practice of the customs authorities, the tobacco products were disposed of by shredding, a method which, according to the agency, minimizes negative environmental impact.

The seized products were recognized as counterfeit and substandard. The packaging lacked mandatory health warnings, excise stamps, and labeling elements required under Uzbek legislation.

The State Customs Committee noted that since the beginning of 2025, customs and law enforcement agencies have identified 681 cases of illegal tobacco circulation. The total value of the confiscated cigarettes is estimated at approximately 28 billion soums.