Authorities explained why Uzbekistan is introducing pet identification.

Uzbek authorities have clarified the reasons for introducing mandatory identification of domestic animals.

Responding to concerns raised on social media after the new animal identification rules came into force, that the new rules could become a tool for monitoring and imposing fines, the Ministry of Agriculture stated that the main goal of the system is to protect public health, prevent the spread of dangerous diseases, and improve food safety.

According to the ministry, identification will allow for accurate animal counting, monitoring their health, and promptly identifying outbreaks of dangerous infections. This applies in particular to diseases such as anthrax, rabies, brucellosis, and echinococcosis.

Furthermore, the system will facilitate faster identification of the source of infection, identifying animals that have been in contact with carriers of the infection, and promptly taking measures to prevent the further spread of diseases.

Another important objective is to ensure traceability of livestock products. Identification will make it possible to determine the origin of meat, milk, and other products, as well as confirm that the animal has undergone a veterinary inspection and has been declared healthy.

The Ministry of Agriculture emphasized that animal identification is aimed at improving biological security, increasing agricultural efficiency, and ensuring greater product safety for consumers.

As a reminder, new pet registration rules in Uzbekistan came into effect today, August 7. Owners are required to microchip or tag their pets and register them in a single electronic database. The identification procedure will be free until 2028.