Editor’s Note
**Editor’s Note:** Uzbekistan is set to transform its jewelry sector with a phased rollout of mandatory digital labeling for precious metals and stones, aiming to enhance transparency and curb illicit trade.
Major changes are expected in the jewelry market in Uzbekistan. The government plans to gradually introduce mandatory digital labeling for products made of precious metals and stones.
According to the project, jewelry made of precious metals and stones will be digitally labeled through the “Asl belgisi” (Sign of Authenticity) system.
The main goal is to combat illegal trade, track the origin of products, and give customers the ability to verify authenticity.
Mandatory digital labeling is planned to be introduced gradually, not all at once.
- Until December 30, 2027: a pilot project will be conducted
- From January 1, 2029: mandatory labeling begins for manufacturers and importers
- From April 1, 2029: mandatory requirements for retail trade will be introduced
Companies such as Gold Moon Tashkent, Sofizar, Merrit Jewellery, and Termez Gold Production are expected to participate in the pilot project.
Technically, a Data Matrix barcode will be applied to the piece of jewelry or its tag.
Through this code, all stages of the product’s movement — production, import, warehousing, store inventory, and point-of-sale transactions — will be recorded in the system.
This method allows for tracking where the product came from, its circulation history, and whether it has entered legal sale.
The most interesting aspect of the project is that customers will be able to verify the authenticity of jewelry via a mobile app.
If there is doubt about a product or signs of counterfeiting are detected, citizens will have the opportunity to file a complaint with state authorities.
CRPT TURON has been designated as the operator of the digital labeling system. During the trial period, identification codes are planned to be provided to business representatives free of charge.
This will allow entrepreneurs to adapt to the new system, test technical processes, and prepare before the mandatory phase begins.
However, after 2029, requirements for manufacturers, importers, and retailers will become significantly stricter.
If the system is fully operational, transparency in the circulation of jewelry may increase. Selling illegal or products of unknown origin will become difficult.
On one hand, this protects honest manufacturers and sellers. On the other hand, it reduces risks for the customer.
However, new technical requirements, reporting, coding, and additional obligations related to the cash register system may emerge for businesses. In other words, the market will slowly move away from the “business as usual” mode.
Jewelry is an expensive purchase. Therefore, the customer always wants to be sure of the quality, hallmark, origin, and authenticity of the product.
Digital labeling can serve to strengthen exactly this trust.
If the system works effectively, finding the answer to the question “is this genuine or fake?” will become much easier in the future. And for counterfeit products, there will be less room in the market.
For now, the initiative is in the project stage. The trial period for its implementation, technical preparation, and working with entrepreneurs are of great importance.
Most importantly, the new system should provide real protection to the customer and not turn into excessive bureaucracy for businesses.