Kyrgyzstan secures tariff exemption for cocoa powder imports within EAEU

Kyrgyzstan has obtained a tariff exemption on cocoa powder imports within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) following the approval of a new trade measure by the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC), reports BelTA, a partner of TV BRICS.

The decision was adopted during a meeting of the EEC Council and suggests the exemption of up to 300 tonnes of imported cocoa powder from customs duties for Kyrgyzstan until 31 December 2026.

According to the commission, the initiative is designed to ensure stable supplies of raw materials for the food industry, reduce production costs and support domestic manufacturers in the confectionery sector. The measure is also expected to contribute to the development of Kyrgyzstan’s processing industry and strengthen the country’s food security.

The tariff relief forms part of a broader EAEU initiative covering several member states. Under the approved quotas, Belarus will receive duty-free imports of up to 1,500 tonnes of cocoa powder, while Kyrgyzstan will be allocated up to 300 tonnes intended for industrial processing.

EEC Minister in charge of Trade Andrey Slepnev stated that the customs and tariff measure aims to increase the supply of cocoa powder to domestic markets across participating countries for the production of finished goods.

The imported raw material is widely used in the manufacture of chocolate and chocolate-based products, confectionery, bakery items, flour-based goods, dairy products containing cocoa components, as well as beverages and dry mixes.