EU adds another Uzbek firm to sanctions over Russia ties

As part of its 17th package of sanctions against Russia, the European Union has added the Uzbek company "Trade Engine System" to its updated sanctions list. This was announced on the official website of the European Union.

The company is suspected of supporting Russia’s military-industrial complex. As a result, it is now subject to strict export restrictions on dual-use goods and technologies—those that can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

The latest sanctions package also targets 149 oil tankers that make up Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” along with companies from third countries believed to be assisting Moscow in circumventing sanctions. These include firms based in the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Serbia, and Vietnam.

For reference, "Trade Engine System" specializes in cargo transportation by rail, road, sea, and air. The company was registered in July 2022 with an authorized capital of 10 million sums. Its founder and director is Nosirjon Akbarov.

It is worth recalling that the EU’s 16th sanctions package—announced on the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine—also included an Uzbek company. At that time, "Uzstanex", a wholesale distributor of mechanical devices, was blacklisted.

Other Uzbek companies currently under EU sanctions include "Alfa Beta Creative" LLC, "GFK Logistics Asia" LLC, and "Mvizion LLC".