Kyrgyzstan’s Veterinary and Phytosanitary Control Service has conducted a large-scale monitoring of potato sales at major markets in Bishkek and Osh, following a directive from Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Agriculture, Erlis Akuunbekov. The primary goal of the inspections was to identify unscrupulous intermediaries who might be selling imported Chinese potatoes under the guise of domestic produce. While the monitoring confirmed the presence of Chinese potatoes on store shelves, officials reported no instances of them being mislabeled or sold as local products. The agency reminded that such imports are part of Kyrgyzstan’s WTO commitments, which simultaneously open up opportunities for Kyrgyz exporters to access the Chinese market.
Currently, the retail price for imported potatoes stands at 38–40 soms per kilogram, slightly lower than the local product, which is priced at 42–44 soms. Wholesale prices for domestic potatoes range from 35 to 40 soms. However, authorities have expressed concern over some farmers deliberately holding back stocks in storage, anticipating further price increases. The Veterinary Control Service is warning against this strategy, noting that the imminent arrival of early potatoes from the Aravan district will naturally curb prices. Prolonged storage under these conditions risks product spoilage and significant financial losses for producers. Officials have urged farmers to sell their goods in a timely manner and realistically assess the market situation, emphasizing that responsibility for any losses due to spoilage rests solely with the producers themselves. State bodies will continue to monitor price stability and trade transparency as the country prepares for the spring planting season.
