Uzbekistan Clarifies Rules for Replacing Defective Goods

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Legislative Chamber of Parliament of Uzbekistan has reviewed in first reading a draft law amending Article 14 of the Law “On Protection of Consumer Rights,” aimed at strengthening legal safeguards for citizens when purchasing goods of inadequate quality.

The document seeks to clarify mechanisms for replacing defective products and eliminate existing legal gaps that in some cases have led to delays in fulfilling consumer claims. Current legislation did not clearly define the grounds and procedures for additional quality checks during product replacement, resulting in disputes between consumers and sellers.

Under the draft law, if manufacturing, structural, formulation, or other defects are identified, the seller or manufacturer is required to immediately replace the product with an identical one. The existing general replacement period of seven days is maintained.

The bill also establishes clear conditions under which additional quality inspections may be conducted. Such procedures are permitted when it is not possible to visually determine whether defects arose after the sale due to improper storage, misuse, or actions by third parties.

The draft law further regulates the allocation of costs for inspections. If defects are found to be the responsibility of the seller or manufacturer, the business must bear the costs. If no defects are found, or if they are attributable to the consumer, the costs are borne by the consumer.

In addition, the document grants consumers additional rights, including participation in inspections, receiving notification of the process, and requesting independent expertise at their own expense.

Following discussions, the draft law was approved in first reading by deputies and forwarded to the Senate for further consideration.