In Kazakhstan, potato prices remain high, reaching up to 400 KZT (approx. $0.90) per kilogram in the capital, despite a seemingly adequate supply. The Ministry of Agriculture reports that 2.6 million tons of potatoes were harvested in 2024 (down from 3.7 million tons in 2023), though this still exceeds the country's annual consumption of about 2 million tons. Officials say the decrease reflects better reporting rather than lower yields.
Several factors contribute to the increase in retail prices. Storage costs play a significant role: potatoes that sell for 120–150 KZT ($0.27–$0.33) in the fall rise to nearly 290 KZT ($0.64) by winter due to increased electricity costs (up 30%), labour, and warehousing expenses. Intermediaries further inflate prices; farmers typically sell at 100–220 KZT ($0.22–$0.49) per kg, but these are later resold at up to 400 KZT ($0.90).
Consumer prices remain high even with the yearly imports of 50,000–60,000 tons of potatoes and the sharp decline in global prices; in 2024, the cost of imported potatoes was 45,102 KZT/ton (~$100/ton), compared to 100,476 KZT/ton (~$223) in 2022. Kazakhstan imports mostly from Russia, Pakistan, and China during the off-season.
To stabilize prices, the government imposed a temporary export ban from January to July 2025. Even so, farmers frequently sell to the highest bidder, regardless of whether the buyer is domestic or foreign. Local intermediaries dominate the supply chain and resell to retailers with high markups.
Producers face deep-rooted challenges: supermarket chains impose unfavorable trade terms (post-payment and product returns), while the sector is heavily dependent on imported seeds, equipment, and storage facilities, making it vulnerable to currency fluctuations. Regulatory fines and administrative burdens further stifle growth.
Experts warn that without expanded cold storage infrastructure and better logistics, Kazakhstan may either continue to suffer from high winter prices or face waste from surplus crops. Efforts to boost potato acreage will fail without matching investment in infrastructure.
While officials claim there is no deficit and that prices reflect free-market conditions, many farmers argue that the current system favours middlemen and penalises producers. Without serious reform, high potato prices are likely to remain a staple in Kazakhstan's economy.
Source: rus.azattyq-ruhy.kz