Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan collaborate to address ‘gray certificate’ issue
Kazakhstan Plans to Restrict Circulation of Kyrgyz Products
On March 13, 2024, the Minister of Economy and Commerce of Kyrgyzstan, Daniyar Amangeldiev, provided comments to 24.kg news agency regarding Kazakhstan’s intentions to limit the circulation of products from the Kyrgyz Republic.
Amangeldiev mentioned that Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan have developed a joint plan of authorized bodies in the field of technical regulation, which was signed by Kazakhstan on March 5 and Kyrgyzstan on March 7. The plan consists of 13 measures aimed at addressing the issue.
The Minister expressed concerns about the potential impact of these restrictions, stating that goods entering Kyrgyzstan would need to be certified by Kyrgyz laboratories, while exports to Kazakhstan would require certification by their laboratories. He emphasized the importance of joint efforts to resolve the situation, as both countries’ businesses would suffer from such restrictions.
Negotiations are currently underway with Kazakhstan to prevent the decree on restricting products from Kyrgyzstan from being enforced. Amangeldiev also mentioned that the first measures to address the problem would be implemented by the end of March 2024.
In an effort to comply with the Eurasian Economic Union’s technical regulations, a new decree has been adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers on February 28, 2024. This decree stipulates that declarations of conformity for goods exported to EAEU countries must be registered through Kyrgyzstandart, the authorized certification body.
Amangeldiev emphasized that this move aims to reduce the number of unscrupulous laboratories and ensure compliance with technical regulations. Overall, joint efforts are being made to address the situation and prevent any negative repercussions on trade between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
