Kyrgyz MP proposes fee on Uzbeks as response to tinted window charges (video)

Uzbekistan has been charging $15 for vehicles from Kyrgyzstan with tinted rear windows, as per its regulations. In response, Kyrgyz parliamentarian Dastan Bekeshev proposed imposing a similar fee on Uzbek vehicles. This announcement was made during a session of the Jogorku Kenesh on April 2.

Bekeshev pointed out that Kyrgyzstan has not imposed such requirements on Uzbek vehicles. He suggested either repealing the fee or introducing a similar rule for Uzbek vehicles. Addressing Kyrgyzstan's Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev, Bekeshev emphasized the need for reciprocity.

Kulubayev replied that if this is an internal law of a neighboring country, the Foreign Ministry cannot intervene. However, he proposed discussing the issue on a parity basis during an intergovernmental commission meeting.

Bekeshev also claimed that Uzbek border officials have even set up a Kyrgyz bank payment system to collect these fines at border crossings.

The regulation in Uzbekistan was introduced in 2018. It mandates a $15 fee for foreign passenger vehicles with altered (tinted) rear windows entering or transiting through the country. Drivers are provided with receipts, which must be presented during road inspections. Failure to pay the fee results in administrative penalties.

Additionally, in Uzbekistan, tinting rear windows is allowed for free, while obtaining permission to tint front windows costs 3 million UZS annually. For tourist buses, minivans, and minibuses, side windows can be tinted up to 70%, but proper permits are required.