Uzbekistan, Tashkent, May 3 / Trend D.Azizov /
Uzbekistan has increased the excise duty on a number of imported foodstuffs, a source in government circles informed Trend with the reference to the corresponding decree by the head of state.
In particular, starting May 1, the combined rate of excise duty on beer totals 100 per cent, but not less than $1.3 per litre compared to the previous rate of 70 per cent, but not less than one dollar a litre.
Excise duty on finished or preserved meat and related by-products increased from 50 to 70 per cent of the customs value.
Rates on imports of fruit and vegetables, prepared or preserved, grew from 30 per cent to 50 per cent. In addition, the excise duty was introduced on imported canned or cooked products from fruits and nuts at the rate of 30 per cent.
The excise duty rate on imports of pasta increased from 20 per cent to 30 per cent, food flavourings and sauces from 50 to 70 per cent.
The decree also imposed excise duties on imports of fresh vegetables including potatoes - 10 per cent, onions and garlic - 30 per cent and peas 10 per cent of the customs value.
According to official statistics, in 2012, Uzbekistan increased the volume of imports by nine per cent compared to 2011 up to $12.03 billion, while food products in total imports amounted to 9.9 per cent.
The official exchange rate on May 3 is 2064.61 soum / $ 1.
