From June 15, 2024, an Uzbek law will come into force to reduce punishment for the illegal import, sale, purchase, storage or use of drones in Uzbekistan.
Under the current law, the unauthorised importation of drones carries a fine of $270-$540 and confiscation of the device. Punishment for repeated violations is harsh with fines reaching $670-$1,300, or up to three years’ corrective labour, restriction of freedom or imprisonment.
However, in case of voluntary surrender, the perpetrator is exempt from liability.
Uzbekistan’s Customs Committee stated, “The changes should lead to a reduction in the number of offenses related to the use of drones, as well as an increase in foreign tourists to Uzbekistan. In the past, foreign citizens have been detained more than once for importing UAVs, including through ignorance.” .
Earlier this year, the country’s amended administrative liability replaced criminal liability for violating these rules for the first time.
The import of drones has been prohibited since 2015, with the exception of cases specified by law, such as the use of drones for agricultural purposes.
Sixty-two percent of the drones imported by Uzbekistan come from Sudan, 12% from Venezuela and 9% from Russia.
In early 2022, Uzbekistan announced the launch of locally assembled Lochin (Falcon) drones at the Scientific and Production Centre for Unmanned Aerial Complexes, established under Uzbekistan’s State Committee for Oboronprom. Equipped with specialized equipment and a test laboratory, the centre produces drones for surveillance and military strikes and information gathering as well as for work in agriculture and surveillance in nature reserves, geology and cartography.
