South Korea signs customs MOUs with Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan to curb counterfeits

In a series of agreements announced this week, the Korea Customs Service signed individual memorandums of understanding with Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan to expand cooperation on customs matters and protect intellectual property rights. The MOUs focus on proactively preventing the flow of counterfeit Korean products by sharing intelligence and carrying out joint enforcement operations at both import and export points.

In addition, South Korea concluded customs mutual assistance agreements with Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, establishing channels for the exchange of customs-related information and technology. These arrangements are expected to create direct communication lines for customs clearance, enabling South Korean exporters to resolve procedural issues more quickly. Authorities highlighted that the broader cooperation will also facilitate coordinated responses to illicit activities, including the smuggling of weapons and drugs and attempts to evade customs duties. The moves reflect Seoul's broader strategy to safeguard its brands and curb illegal trade across the Silk Road corridor.