In May 2025, prices for key vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, and onions, rose in Kazakhstan, prompting the government to increase imports from neighboring countries.
According to the Bureau of National Statistics, consumer prices showed mixed dynamics due to seasonal factors, particularly the end of storage supplies from the previous harvest and the transition to early-season produce. Authorities expect food inflation to slow down as new crop volumes arrive on the market.
As of May 27, 2025, cabbage prices dropped by 3.4% compared to the previous week. But carrots became 4.2% more expensive, potatoes rose by 2.8%, and onions by 2.5%, according to the Ministry of Trade and Integration.
To stabilize the market, the government has started importing early vegetables from China, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan. In Astana, a train with 50 refrigerated containers of new-season potatoes was being unloaded. In total, Kazakhstan is bringing in 45,000 tonnes of potatoes and 4,000 tonnes of cabbage.
Domestically, early harvests are also underway. Cabbage harvesting continues in the Turkestan region, and early potato digging has started. Farm-gate prices range from 280 to 350 tenge (about $0.60–$0.75) per kilogram.
Additionally, the Eurasian Economic Commission has approved duty-free imports of up to 150,000 tonnes of potatoes until June 30, 2025, aiming to cushion seasonal price spikes and secure food availability.
Source: liter.kz
