He emphasized that although the EAEU aims to simplify trade processes between states, frequent changes in customs duties make the import of medications complicated. This is especially true for people suffering from rare and oncological diseases, who are forced to ask acquaintances to bring drugs from Turkey or Russia.
“Customs delays shipments of medications if their value exceeds 200 euros, requiring customs clearance. Previously, the threshold was 500 euros, but it has been lowered to 200. How can we solve this problem?” Bekeshev asked.
Sultan Akhmatov, Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce, noted that the amount of duties depends on the internal situation in the country. “If certain needs arise, we can request quotas for specific goods,” he added, assuring that he would consider the issue raised by the deputy.
Bekeshev also pointed out that the current EAEU regulations negatively affect people in need of expensive medications. “We are essentially fighting not against smuggling, but against sick people,” he emphasized.
Sultan Akhmatov agreed with the deputy's opinion and explained that the 200 euro threshold mainly concerns medications purchased online.
