Rights and Obligations of the Manufacturer and Seller of Goods

The Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On Protection of Consumer Rights” No. 221-I of April 26, 1996 regulates relations between consumers, manufacturers, and sellers, ensuring a balance of interests among the parties. Particular attention is given to the rights and obligations of manufacturers and sellers, as they are the key participants in the circulation of goods.

A manufacturer is defined as an enterprise, organization, or individual entrepreneur producing goods for subsequent sale.  A seller is a person who sells goods to a consumer under a sales contract.

These entities are bound by contractual and statutory obligations toward both consumers and the state.

Main Rights of Manufacturers and Sellers

• Conclusion of contracts: The seller and manufacturer have the right to enter into sales contracts on terms not contrary to the law.
• Choice of payment form: The parties may determine the method of payment (cash, non-cash, credit).
• Claims against counterparties: The manufacturer has the right to regulate relations with the seller through contracts, including allocation of responsibility for product defects.
• Exemption from liability: The manufacturer or seller is exempt from liability if it is proven that the damage was caused by force majeure or improper use of the product by the consumer.

Obligations of the Manufacturer

The law imposes a wide range of duties on manufacturers:

• Ensure proper quality and safety of the product during its warranty period, shelf life, or service life.
• Provide consumers with information about the company, the product, rules for use, storage, and disposal.
• Organize repair and maintenance services and supply spare parts during the product’s service life.
• Recall and withdraw hazardous products from circulation.

Obligations of the Seller

As an intermediary between the manufacturer and the consumer, the seller also bears important responsibilities:

• Provide accurate information about the company name, address, and working hours.
• Deliver the goods to the consumer within the agreed timeframe; otherwise, pay a penalty (0.5% per day of delay).
• Replace defective goods or refund the purchase price within the established deadlines.
• Ensure the possibility for the consumer to verify the quality, completeness, and price of the goods, and provide the necessary documents and devices.
• Cover transportation costs for large-sized goods during return or repair.

Liability of the Manufacturer and Seller

• Property liability: For damage caused to the consumer’s life, health, or property due to product defects.
• Liability for false information: Losses caused by incomplete or inaccurate information must be fully compensated.
• Penalties (fines): For failure to deliver, replace, or repair goods within the stipulated time.
• Invalidity of contract terms: Any terms that infringe upon consumer rights are deemed invalid.

Summary Table: Rights, Obligations, and Liabilities

The manufacturer and seller are key figures in the consumer protection system. Their rights ensure business freedom, while their duties safeguard consumer interests. The legislator thoroughly regulates the balance of these rights and obligations, establishing a framework of responsibility, guarantees, and legal protection mechanisms. Thus, the law creates a stable balance of interests and promotes sustainable development of Uzbekistan’s consumer market.