The Ministry of Agriculture of Kyrgyzstan has confirmed that potato exports will not be banned. Nurlan Jumaev, head of the Decision Implementation Department of the Ministry, announced this on February 21 at a press conference in Bishkek.
According to the ministry, Kyrgyzstan produces approximately 1.2 million tons of potatoes annually, while domestic consumption amounts to 700,000 tons per year. Additionally, 150,000 tons are reserved for seeds, and the remaining volume is supplied to the market.
Over the past year, potato prices in the country have been rising. The ministry considered imposing an export ban but ultimately decided against it.
"There were discussions about a ban, but we chose to allow farmers to earn. There will be no restrictions on potato exports. We are allowing them to sell their produce," Jumaev stated.
The ministry believes that current prices are stabilizing and remain lower than in neighboring countries. There are also no expected issues with exports, as Kyrgyzstan has agreements in place with Uzbekistan.
"Our main export markets are Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. We do not expect any panic among farmers. We have agreements with Uzbekistan within the framework of the Roadmap," the statement read.
Previously, Kyrgyz farmers exported between 40,000 and 50,000 tons of potatoes per year. In 2024, the physical volume of exports has already surpassed 100,000 tons.
Source: www.tazabek.kg
