In early 2025, Kazakhstan significantly increased imports of key vegetables. According to trade data from January, potato imports rose sharply to 5,500 tons, with major supplies coming from Uzbekistan and Pakistan. Carrot imports increased by 56% to 3,400 tons, largely sourced from China. Tomato imports also grew by 27% to 5,800 tons, with Iran and Turkmenistan among the main exporters. Imports of eggplants and mushrooms saw notable growth as well.
At the same time, the country reduced imports of certain vegetables. Cabbage imports fell by 62% to 4,100 tons, pepper by 17% to 1,600 tons, and cucumbers by 15% to 2,300 tons. These reductions are largely linked to local seasonal production and shifting consumer demand.
On the export side, Kazakhstan increased shipments of garlic (up nearly 49 times to 43 tons), carrots (up 6 times to 1,100 tons), and cabbage (up 5 times to 2,400 tons), mainly to Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. However, exports of onions, potatoes, and tomatoes dropped sharply by 97%, 73%, and 71%, respectively.
In March 2025, domestic vegetable prices increased by 13.6% year-over-year:
- Potatoes: 233 KZT (~$0.50)
- Cabbage: 190 KZT (~$0.41)
- Onions: 131 KZT (~$0.28)
- Carrots: 162 KZT (~$0.35)
- Cucumbers: 1,200 KZT (~$2.60)
- Tomatoes: 1,300 KZT (~$2.80)
As for fruits, Kazakhstan mainly imports apples, bananas, oranges, and grapes.
Compared to other CIS countries, Kazakhstan offers relatively affordable produce. Potatoes cost less than in Russia or Armenia ($0.80). Tomatoes, however, are more expensive than in Tajikistan ($0.80) but cheaper than in Russia ($3). Among fruits, apples are cheapest in Moldova and Ukraine ($0.80), and most expensive in Russia ($1.70).
Source: energyprom.kz
