Tajikistan has achieved remarkable success in potato production, reaching a record output of 1,139,936 tons in the first ten months of 2024. This figure represents a 20.6% increase compared to the previous year, according to data from the Agency for Statistics under the President of Tajikistan. However, despite this impressive growth, the country continues to face challenges related to high prices and production costs.
Price Trends and Economic Factors
In November 2024, the average price of potatoes in Tajikistan saw a 12.2% decrease compared to the same period last year, with prices ranging from 5.00 to 6.00 somonis per kilogram in Dushanbe and 4.20 to 5.80 somonis in the regions. Despite this seasonal drop, experts warn that long-term factors continue to exert pressure on prices. Rising production expenses, primarily due to outdated farming practices and equipment, contribute significantly to the high costs.
Challenges in Potato Farming
The majority of potato production in Tajikistan comes from small farms that often lack access to modern agricultural technologies. This situation leads to reduced productivity and limits the sector’s potential. Additionally, persistent water shortages during the summer months in districts such as Shahriston, Devastich, and Nourobod further complicate farming efforts.
Moreover, inadequate logistics and storage infrastructure exacerbate the problem. Many farmers report a lack of modern storage facilities, forcing them to sell their produce through intermediaries or rely on outdated storage methods. A weak transportation network also increases delivery costs, which ultimately affects the final price of potatoes.
Regional Production Insights
According to official statistics, Sughd province is the leading potato-producing region, contributing 640,000 tons—a 19.8% increase from last year. Districts under republican subordination produced 283,000 tons, marking a 25.7% rise, while Khatlon province also showed significant growth with 248,000 tons, a 19.4% increase.
As of the latest data, Tajikistan ranks 4th in potato production among Central Asian countries. The per capita potato consumption stands at approximately 111 kg, placing Tajikistan third in the region after Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. The Ministry of Agriculture previously indicated that a minimum of 92 kg of potatoes per person per year is necessary for adequate consumption.
Future Prospects
Potato farming is a crucial subsector of agriculture in Tajikistan. In 2023, the country adopted a program aimed at producing over one million tons of potatoes annually. The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MoEDT) forecasts that Tajikistan will produce 1,163,000 tons of potatoes this year, with plans to increase this figure to 1,203,000 tons by 2027.
Since 2018, potato production has expanded due to increased planting areas. However, agricultural scientist Dr. Qurbonali Partoyev notes that the extensive farming methods currently in use are inefficient, particularly in hot climates with limited irrigated land. He emphasizes the need for innovative technologies and intensified agricultural practices to improve yields.
Currently, the average potato yield in Tajikistan is between 21.8 and 22.3 tons per hectare, which is below global standards. Dr. Partoyev believes that enhancing this yield will require collaboration with scientists and the introduction of new potato varieties.
In conclusion, while Tajikistan’s record potato production is a significant achievement, addressing the underlying challenges is essential for sustainable growth in the sector.
