Kyrgyzstan significantly increased its potato imports from China in early 2025, raising concerns about domestic food security and rising dependency on foreign produce.
According to data from China's General Administration of Customs, Kyrgyzstan imported 34,500 tons of potatoes from China in the first quarter of 2025, nearly 500 times more than the total imported throughout 2024.
At a parliamentary session on May 14, MP Iskhak Masaliyev criticized the government for failing to ensure domestic food security.
"We should be ashamed of eating Chinese potatoes in winter," he said, urging authorities to prepare for the upcoming agricultural season, considering possible water shortages and rising climate-related risks.
The issue arises as potato prices in Kyrgyzstan have surged sharply in recent months. According to the National Statistical Committee, potato prices rose by 0.4% in March 2025 alone, and have increased by 38% since December 2024, becoming one of the fastest-growing food items in the country.
Masaliyev emphasized that the government must take strategic steps to support local growers, improve crop planning, and ensure long-term food independence.
Source: www.tazabek.kg