Uzbekistan Strengthens Liability for Illegal Circulation of Prescription Drugs

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During a session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, a draft law aimed at tightening liability for the illegal circulation of prescription drugs was considered in the first reading. The document was prepared by a group of deputies exercising their right to legislative initiative.

It was noted that large-scale reforms are being carried out in the country’s pharmaceutical sector to ensure the population has access to high-quality and safe medications, to develop domestic production, and to improve market regulation.

However, in recent years, cases of illegal sale of prescription drugs have become more frequent, often resulting in serious health consequences for citizens. According to analysis, between 2022 and 2025, 285,000 units of medicines worth 18 billion soms were seized from illegal circulation. In 2024 alone, the number of such incidents tripled compared to 2022.

Existing sanctions were deemed disproportionate. Therefore, the draft law proposes amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Responsibility to increase penalties for such violations.

Specifically, criminal liability is proposed for violations of retail sale regulations for prescription drugs containing potent substances, particularly if the violation is committed on a large scale or after prior administrative penalties. Fines of 200 to 300 sizes of basic estimated value are also proposed.

In addition, the draft law suggests increasing fines for violations in the sale of all medicines, whether or not they contain potent substances.

According to the authors of the bill, its adoption will help ensure reliable protection of citizens’ health, strict compliance with pharmaceutical sales regulations, and stronger measures against illegal circulation of pharmaceutical products.

After deliberations, the document was approved by deputies in the second reading.