Uzbekistan Strengthens Ties with Kyrgyzstan as Potato Imports Double, Reflecting a Broader Trend in Agricultural Trade
In the first half of 2024, Uzbekistan significantly increased its potato imports from Kyrgyzstan, marking a notable shift in the region’s agricultural trade dynamics. According to Tazabek.kg, Uzbekistan imported 26,500 tons of potatoes from Kyrgyzstan, representing a 120% increase compared to the same period in 2022. The value of these imports has more than doubled as well, rising from $1.3 million to $2.8 million, solidifying Uzbekistan as the primary buyer of Kyrgyz potatoes.
This surge in potato imports reflects a broader trend in Uzbekistan’s growing demand for fruits and vegetables. In the first six months of 2024 alone, Uzbekistan imported fruits and vegetables worth $237.9 million, an increase of 35% compared to the same period last year. The rise in imports highlights the country’s expanding need for agricultural products to meet domestic consumption and support its own agricultural industry.
Despite the increase in imports, Uzbekistan continues to prioritize the development of its agricultural export potential. The country has set ambitious goals to boost its agricultural exports to $3.5 billion by the end of 2024. This growth strategy focuses on enhancing the production of fruits, vegetables, melons, and other crops, with significant investments being made to support infrastructure development. For example, the creation of 20 mobile laboratories across different regions will be integrated into the uzagrolab.uz platform to improve the quality and safety of agricultural products.
In addition to increasing imports, Uzbekistan is also expanding its export footprint. Plans have been announced to supply potatoes to the Kazakh city of Aktau, further positioning Uzbekistan as a key player in regional agricultural trade. The combination of rising imports and a focus on boosting exports indicates that Uzbekistan is strategically balancing its agricultural supply and demand to support both domestic and regional markets.
As Uzbekistan continues to grow its agricultural sector, the increasing trade with Kyrgyzstan and other neighboring countries will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the region’s agricultural landscape. These developments provide valuable opportunities for farmers, agronomists, and agricultural businesses across Central Asia.
