Agricultural Newsletter of Central Asia October 2024
In this edition, we spotlight Kazakhstan’s national priorities in preserving unique flora and fauna, safeguarding forests from wildfires, and advancing reforestation efforts. We also explore Uzbekistan’s ambitious AI strategy targeting a $1.5bln market by 2030 and highlight Kyrgyzstan’s significant investment of over $145 million in agricultural equipment since 2021.
Kazakhstan Expands Forest Seed Initiative Nationwide
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced plans to expand the successful forest-seed complex from the Semey Ormany Reserve to other regions across Kazakhstan.
- He emphasized the critical need to protect forests from wildfires and accelerate reforestation efforts.
- The Semey Ormany Reserve, home to Central Asia’s only international-standard forest-seed complex, will serve as a model for other areas.
- The reserve also focuses on expanding pine forests and improving soil quality through organic fertilizers, with plans to plant 133 million trees by 2027 as part of Kazakhstan’s goal to plant 2 billion trees within five years.
Fruit Consumption Rises in Kazakhstan, but Prices Surge
In the second quarter of 2024, fruit consumption in Kazakhstan increased by 5.3%, averaging 16.5 kg per person, with Almaty leading at 20.5 kg.
- Apples remained the top choice, followed by bananas and strawberries.
- However, despite the rise, annual fruit consumption per capita is still low at 55 kg, well below other countries.
- Fruit prices have also climbed, with households spending 13.1% more than last year. Kazakhstan’s fruit prices rank among the highest in the CIS, with bananas costing $2 per kg and oranges at $2.1 per kg. Akmola and Ulytau saw the sharpest price hikes.
Rare Tien Shan Brown Bears Captured on Camera in Kazakhstan
Unique footage of Tien Shan brown bears roaming the Zhongar-Alatau State National Nature Park has been released by Kazakhstan’s Forestry and Wildlife Committee, highlighting efforts to protect this endangered species.
Listed in both the International and Kazakhstan Red Books, these majestic bears live at altitudes of 1,500 to 3,500 meters. Formidable in size - up to 2.2 meters in length and 200 kilograms in weight - they have a diverse diet, including plants, berries, and small prey.
Uzbekistan Targets $1.5bln AI Market by 2030 with New Strategy
Uzbekistan is fast-tracking its AI development with a new strategy approved by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on October 14, 2024.
- The plan aims to grow the AI market to $1.5bn by 2030.
- Key goals include creating 10 AI research labs, launching advanced computing infrastructure, and increasing government AI services to 10%.
- Backed by a $50mln interest-free loan, Uzbekistan is also aiming to enter the top 50 in the Government AI Readiness Index, setting the stage for rapid innovation.
- AI-driven solutions will be applied across several sectors like banking, healthcare, agriculture, and energy.
- In agriculture AI will be used for crop yield forecasting and monitoring livestock, poultry, and fish production.
Kyrgyzstan Invests Over $145 mln in Agricultural Equipment Since 2021
Since 2021, Kyrgyzstan has significantly boosted its agricultural sector, procuring over $145 million worth of specialized equipment, President Sadyr Japarov announced.
With 12.4 billion som ($145.3 million) allocated for equipment leasing, the country has acquired 3,639 pieces of machinery to support its agricultural needs.
As a key pillar of the Kyrgyz economy, agriculture is driving the production of high-quality, globally competitive products, creating new jobs, and fostering the growth of processing enterprises.
Stay tuned for more agricultural updates and developments from Central Asia in the next edition of the LVVN Astana Newsletter!