Importing goods to the RK without ESF: what are the risks for business?
Конституция

Importing goods to the RK without ESF: what are the risks for business?

06.07.2026 20:40:29 173

Important for everyone working with imported goods in Kazakhstan:

⚠️ Importing without issuing an Electronic Invoice (ESF) is a violation of the law

When ESF is mandatory:

✅ Import from third countries (non-EAEU) upon sale of goods

✅ Import from EAEU countries (for goods from the List)

✅ Any sale of imported goods — all taxpayers (with or without VAT) are required to issue an ESF

Since 2019, ESF is required at any stage of the imported goods distribution chain

Consequences of violation (Art. 280-1 of the COP of the RK):

First violation:

  • Failure to issue an ESF → Warning
  • Late issuance → Warning

Repeated violation (within a year):

  • Failure to issue → Fine of 40–150 MCI
  • Late issuance → Fine of 20–100 MCI

💰 Fines in 2026 (MCI = 4 325 ₸):

Business

Failure to issue ESF

Late issuance

Small

173 000 ₸

86 500 ₸

Medium

432 500 ₸

216 250 ₸

Large

648 750 ₸

432 500 ₸

🔴 Additional risks:

❌ Prohibition on importing goods without ESF

❌ Tax audits for VAT evasion

❌ Issues with shipping/shipping-accompanied documents

What to do:

  1. Issue ESF within the established timeframe when importing
  2. Do not sell imported goods without ESF
  3. When exporting goods from the List — certify copies of ESF with the State Revenue Authorities (SRA)

💡 Don't wait for a repeated violation — the fine can be up to 650 000 ₸!

 

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kgd-zhetysu/press/news/details/1245156?lang=ru