He noted that as of 2021, smuggled drugs accounted for approximately 30-40% of the total import volume, and this situation remains relevant.
“Previously, we did not have the means to determine whether a package was smuggled or legally imported. With the implementation of the traceability system and as a result of digitalization in our Department, such a tool has become available. Currently, the system operates partially — it does not cover medicines costing less than 100 soms, but we are actively working on expanding its functionality. In the near future, we plan to include these medications as well, which will allow us to get a complete picture,” he added.
Kanataev also mentioned that every year, medications worth about 30 billion soms are imported into Kyrgyzstan. “This figure is constantly increasing: in 2023 it amounted to 32 billion, and this year it is expected to reach 34 billion soms. The increase in volumes is related to the implementation of the traceability system,” he emphasized.
