New Regulation from May 1st: New Fines Established for False Advertising on the Internet and in the Press

Starting May 1, 2026, significant amendments to the Code of Turkmenistan on Administrative Offenses will officially come into effect. According to the New Law signed by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov on April 11 of this year, penalties for individuals and entities distributing deliberately false advertising have been further strengthened. These changes are primarily aimed at protecting consumer rights and ensuring fairness in the advertising market. Content of the New Rules The new additions to Article $312^1$ of the Code target advertisers who provide false information about goods or services. Administrative liability arises if the advertisement: - Is used for self-serving interests; - Is distributed through mass media or internet networks (information-telecommunication networks); - Causes significant damage to consumers or the state. These regulations apply not only to false information regarding product quality but also to incorrect information about manufacturers, service providers, and sellers. Fine Amount (in base values) Individuals 30 – 50 Officials 40 – 60 Legal entities 50 – 75 Due to the intensification of advertising activities through the internet and social media, this article is of particular importance. The inclusion of the definition "information-telecommunication networks" means that bloggers, entrepreneurs, and advertising agencies spreading false information on online platforms will also be held accountable before the law.