Agricultural Newsletter of Central Asia May 2024

Kazakhstan and The Netherlands Forge Commercial Partnerships

Kazakhstan and The Netherlands have inked nine commercial agreements, marking a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral ties across various sectors, including agro-industrial complex, healthcare, ecology, transport, and logistics. This signing ceremony, held in Astana, was supported by the Embassy of The Netherlands in Kazakhstan and KAZAKH INVEST National Company JSC.

The following documents were signed at the meeting: 

• VISCON Company and the Kazakh Agriculture Ministry signed the Memorandum of Understanding to create an AI-assisted, virus-free planting stock automated production centre. Set for development between 2024-2026, this centre aims to boost plant yield and quality to ensure food security. It will be producing 12 million young plants annually.
• The Ministry and Royal GD signed a document to enhance Kazakhstan's veterinary system.
• Fishery development memorandum has also been signed.

The Role of Kazakhstan in Global Food Security

With nearly a third of the global population still facing food shortages, President Tokayev is leveraging the nation's agricultural potential to ensure global food security. As Central Asia's top wheat producer, Kazakhstan is poised to make a significant impact.

• President Tokayev advocates for strengthening international alliances through targeted programs, the creation of joint agro-innovation centres, and the transfer of innovative technologies.
• Highlighting the vital role of transit and transportation, Tokayev emphasises the importance of developing both existing and new routes, particularly the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, known as the "Middle Corridor." This route is crucial for secure supply chains between Asia and Europe.
• Cargo traffic along the “Middle Corridor” doubled last year to 3 million tons and is projected to reach 10 million tons in the coming years, reflecting the route's growing importance.
• Kazakhstan is also ready to collaborate with neighboring countries to develop the North-South corridor, enhancing connectivity and trade.

Uzbekistan Announces Major Investments in Livestock, Poultry, and Fishery Industries

Uzbekistan is set to transform its agriculture with significant investments in the livestock, poultry, and fishery sectors.

• A substantial $315 million is allocated to establish livestock complexes, procure high-quality cattle, and produce essential animal feed. This investment aims to modernize and stimulate growth in livestock and poultry farming.
• The fishing industry is gearing up for a major overhaul with goals to ramp up production to 1 million tons and generate 50,000 jobs by the end of 2024.
• Under President Mirziyoyev's directive, 500 reservoirs will be constructed along riverbanks to support fishing activities and foster cooperative ventures. This initiative also aims to empower small-scale entrepreneurs in this vital sector.

Kyrgyzstan: Sustainable Agriculture for a Greener Future

Kyrgyzstan's commits itself to sustainable agriculture through initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly farming solutions.

• The government has launched an initiative to help farmers transition to organic farming methods, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
• Central to Kyrgyzstan's agricultural transformation is the adoption of the new methodologies and innovative technologies. This vision aims to significantly boost crop yields with high-quality seeds and increase the volume of agricultural products for export.

• Special focus is given to empowering low-income families through agricultural training and support. This opens up avenues for social empowerment and economic development, marking a significant step towards eradicating poverty and hunger in the region.
• The government's role is multifaceted, offering a lifeline to farmers through financing from state-owned banks and providing of essential irrigation equipment.