Uzbekistan to Introduce Excise Tax on Potato Chips

The government of Uzbekistan plans to introduce new excise taxes from April 1, 2026, starting with potato chips, which will be taxed at 15,000 soums ($1.26) per kilogram, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

Alcohol taxes will also rise. Strong spirits such as vodka and brandy will carry a duty of 48,000 soums ($4) per litre, natural wine 10,000 soums ($0.84), other wines 12,000 soums ($1), and beer 4,000 soums ($0.34) per litre.

Excises on tobacco products including cigars, hookah and heated tobacco, and vapes will increase by 7% from February 2026, with cigarette duties rising by the same rate in July.

A progressive tax will be applied to sugary and energy drinks. Beverages containing up to 5 g of sugar per 100 ml will be taxed at 500 soums ($0.04) per litre, 5–10 g at 515 soums ($0.04), and over 10 g at 535 soums ($0.04). Drinks with artificial sweeteners will be taxed at 500 soums ($0.04) per litre, while energy drinks will carry a higher rate of 2,150 soums ($0.18) per litre.

The measures aim to regulate consumption and increase government revenue while targeting high-sugar and high-alcohol products.