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.
