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Authorities in Uzbekistan will block access to the Chinese e-commerce platform TEMU starting March 20, the National Agency for Prospective Projects (NAPP) and the country’s Tax Committee announced on March 4.
The decision stems from TEMU’s alleged failure to comply with Uzbekistan’s laws on e-commerce, retail trade, advertising, data protection, consumer rights, and intellectual property. According to government decree No. 885, issued on December 26, 2024, only legal entities registered in Uzbekistan may operate online marketplaces in the country.
In light of the upcoming restriction, Uzbek citizens are advised not to place any new orders on TEMU as of March 4. Those who have already made purchases are encouraged to cancel their orders and request refunds.
NAPP and the Tax Committee urged residents to use only foreign e-commerce platforms that have localized their operations in Uzbekistan or are officially registered on the country’s list of foreign companies and marketplaces providing digital services. This measure, officials stated, is aimed at safeguarding personal data and preventing potential disputes.
TEMU, which launched its advertising campaign in Uzbekistan in September 2024, quickly gained popularity due to its low prices. However, its operations raised concerns among authorities and experts. Economist Otabek Bakirov pointed out that TEMU is not registered in Uzbekistan and does not pay taxes, yet its business in the country has been doubling every month.
Bakirov criticized the decision to block TEMU, calling it “a subjective move that serves a very narrow set of interests and harms consumers.” He noted that the government had given e-commerce platforms until July 1 to register and comply with the new regulations. “There are fewer than four months left until this deadline. Why not wait and assess the situation then? Who benefits from banning TEMU now? Is there regulatory bias at play?” Bakirov asked.
