In 2023, the Middle Urals imported over 75,000 tons of fruits and vegetables. Uzbekistan is the primary supplier, contributing 87% of the total produce. Customs officials in Sverdlovsk highlight a rising import trend from other countries, including China.
Imports from Turkmenistan have seen a remarkable 135% increase, China at 62%, and Azerbaijan at 42%. Central Asian nations primarily export tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, According to the Ural Customs Service.
The persimmon season has commenced, with approximately 2,500 tons imported to the Ural region from January to early November, nearly half of which arrived in October. Major suppliers of persimmons include Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and China.
While citrus fruits are imported year-round, a decline in imports occurs from February, followed by a notable increase from September. October alone witnessed around 230 tons of citrus entering the region.
"There has been a shift in the list of citrus suppliers. Turkey, Peru, Azerbaijan, and South Africa have joined the traditional contributors like Uzbekistan, China, and Georgia. At the same time, the supply of citrus volumes from Uzbekistan decreased by 25%, and from China increased by 136%. The Urals business community is adapting to changes in logistic chains, prompting entrepreneurs to explore new suppliers," noted Alexey Frolov, the head of the Ural Customs Service.
source: vsenovostint.ru