Central Asia Agricultural Hotspot Tracker (Issue 10, 2026)

Kazakhstan

1. Grain harvest progress: 61.6% reaped, 13.5 million tonnes threshed as of 9 September

Kazakhstan's harvest campaign continues. According to the Agriculture Ministry, as of 9 September farmers had reaped grain crops from 9.6 million hectares — 61.6% of the total area — and threshed 13.5 million tonnes, averaging 14.1 centners per hectare. This year's pace is markedly faster than at the same point in 2025, while new-crop quality indicators remain stable. Licensed grain-receiving enterprises have accepted 2.83 million tonnes. For comparison, intake over the same period last year was 552,700 tonnes — more than a fivefold increase. Grain quality is under special scrutiny. Laboratory tests show 93% of accepted soft wheat meets food-grade standards; within food-grade wheat, Class III accounts for 75%, Class IV 18%, and Class V plus off-grade 7%. Among tested soft wheat, 51% has gluten content above 28%, 23.6% falls between 25–27%, and 25.4% between 23–24%. The figures point to strong food-use potential for the new crop. Other major crops are also advancing: 906,500 tonnes of oilseeds, 2.4 million tonnes of vegetables, 1.8 million tonnes of melons and 1.2 million tonnes of potatoes harvested. To support harvesting and autumn field work, regions have received 401,100 tonnes of diesel. Mineral-fertiliser supply continues: annual demand is 2.3 million tonnes, of which 2.0 million tonnes have been contracted and shipped — 85% of the annual total.

Source: Prime Minister of Kazakhstan | Date: 2026-09-09

2. January–August grain exports reach 7.1 million tonnes

Kazakhstan's grain harvest is accelerating; 72.5% of the grain-crop area has now been reaped, yielding 16.2 million tonnes. The government keeps its focus on timely harvesting, supplying farmers with the resources they need, and on new-crop storage and transport. From January to August, 9.3 million tonnes of grain were moved, up 13% year on year. Domestic transport accounted for 2.1 million tonnes (+8%). With the new harvest underway in August, that month's grain shipments hit 1.157 million tonnes — a record high and 35% above August last year. From January to August, Kazakhstan exported 7.1 million tonnes of grain, of which 4.8 million tonnes went to Central Asian countries (+37% year on year). Exports to Uzbekistan reached 3.6 million tonnes (+50%), and to Tajikistan 998,000 tonnes (+17%). In addition, 562,000 tonnes were shipped to China (+34%). Since the harvest began, licensed grain-receiving enterprises have accepted 4.4 million tonnes, 50% more than the 3.1 million tonnes a year earlier. The meeting also discussed new-crop transport and sales. The government said it is actively preparing seed reserves for the 2027 spring sowing; regional data show 1.7 million tonnes of seed is ready — 77% of total need — and the fertiliser supply rate stands at 87%, with 2.1 million tonnes already delivered and distributed to producers. More than 130,000 tractors, 29,000 combine harvesters and other agricultural machinery are engaged in the grain harvest.

Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-09-18

3. 35 Kazakh firms join the China–Kazakhstan grain trading platform; first 24,000-tonne flaxseed export contracts signed

Kazakhstan and China have jointly launched a digital trade platform for grain and agricultural products; 35 Kazakh enterprises have registered and signed the first 24,000-tonne export contract for oil flaxseed. The Kazakh International News Agency (Kazinform) cited the Agriculture Ministry. The platform was launched during the 8th China Grain Trading Conference, attended by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Nazgul Khatypova. Built on China's National Grain Trade Center, it connects a network of about 50,000 agricultural enterprises and is operated by the Grain Trade Coordination Center under China's National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration. Through the platform, Kazakh and Chinese firms can trade online, connect directly with potential partners and complete deals with fewer intermediaries. Trading can be by bidding or direct negotiation, including public auctions, invited tenders, negotiated transactions and fixed-price sales. The platform also provides financial guarantees, online settlement, independent inspection and dispute resolution to improve security and transparency — expected to make export deals faster and pricing more predictable. Khatypova said: "35 Kazakh enterprises have registered on the platform and signed a 24,000-tonne oil flaxseed export contract. This shows the strong interest Chinese partners have in Kazakh agricultural products." Initially the platform covers grains, oilseeds, vegetable oils and other oil-and-fat products, with categories later expanded to match Chinese market demand.

Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-09-05

4. Tokayev proposes a joint food-industry cluster with South Korea; about 80 deals worth US$19 billion signed

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said the roughly US$19 billion in agreements between Kazakhstan and South Korea must be turned into concrete business projects. According to his statement, the two sides signed about 80 commercial agreements. Tokayev devoted a dedicated section to agriculture. He noted Kazakhstan's grain output hit a record ~27 million tonnes last year: "Agro-industrial complex products are exported to more than 70 countries, worth US$7 billion. Kazakhstan has vast land resources, while South Korea is a recognised leader in efficient, high-tech agriculture. We propose combining our competitive advantages to build a joint food-industry cluster focused on production, deep processing and export to international markets. Kazakhstan offers Korean companies not just a sizeable market but broad opportunities to locate production bases, bring in technology and access the Eurasian continental market." Tokayev also stressed that "Central Asia's economic success is inseparable from the sustainable development of each country, and strengthening regional connectivity will let us fully unlock the region's overall economic potential."

Source: Akorda (Presidency of Kazakhstan) | Date: 2026-09-15

5. Tokayev proposes a "resources-for-technology" model: expand exports of grain, oilseeds, meat and dairy to Korea, build an agro-industrial value chain

Tokayev said Kazakhstan is ready to expand exports to South Korea of grain, oil crops, meat, dairy products, honey and more. A more ambitious, longer-term proposal is to build a Kazakhstan–Korea agro-industrial value chain that combines Kazakhstan's agricultural resources with Korean technology. The model means processing more farm products before export rather than relying on primary-commodity exports. Early cases already exist: Kazakhstan and Korean partners recently agreed a US$1.3 million meat-processing project, and other deals involve supplying Korean markets with Kazakh beef and sunflower oil. In the first half of 2026, Kazakhstan's exports to South Korea grew 17.2%. Tokayev also cited Lotte's investment in Rakhat as an existing example of Korean participation in Kazakhstan's food industry. Tokayev further proposed that Kazakhstan provides location, mineral and agricultural resources, energy capacity and access to Eurasian transport corridors, while Korea brings technology, capital, engineering expertise and industrial enterprises. Astana wants more of the value created between the two ends to stay in Kazakhstan through processing, component production, manufacturing, data infrastructure and research.

Source: Kazakhstanskaya Pravda / business press | Date: 2026-09-15

6. January–August processed-milk output reaches 441,300 tonnes

The latest National Bureau of Statistics data show that in January–August 2026 Kazakhstan produced 441,300 tonnes of processed dairy products (processed milk). The figure is up 0.2% from 440,500 tonnes in the same period of 2025. The leading regions in processed-milk output over the eight months were North Kazakhstan (120,800 t), Akmola (96,200 t), Almaty region (64,700 t) and Kostanay (43,000 t). For full-year 2025, national processed-milk output reached 671,000 tonnes, up 6.2% from 2024. On foreign trade, from January to July 2026 Kazakhstan exported 2,900 tonnes of processed milk, up 3.0% from 2,800 tonnes a year earlier. Russia (2,240 t), Uzbekistan (307.9 t) and Tajikistan (194.0 t) were the main export markets. In the first nine months, domestic economic growth was strong, with construction, manufacturing, transport and warehousing, trade and agriculture remaining the main drivers of GDP growth.

Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-09-29

Kyrgyzstan

1. Kyrgyzstan and JICA cooperate to develop a fruit-and-vegetable cluster

Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry signed a protocol after talks with representatives of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). According to the ministry, the protocol was signed by Deputy Minister Rysgul Akimzhanova. It was adopted to prepare a joint project planned for implementation in 2027, aimed at developing vegetable and fruit-and-vegetable clusters. The project goals are to raise the competitiveness of domestic vegetables, fruits and berries, and to create added value across the chain from production through processing, storage and sales. The talks discussed applying the cluster approach, introducing modern technology and developing organic agriculture. Special attention went to strengthening organic-agriculture laboratory capacity and upgrading professionals' qualifications. The signing marks another step in Kyrgyzstan–JICA cooperation to develop the agricultural sector and raise the export potential of fruit and vegetable products.

Source: Kabar (Кабар) | Date: 2026-09-04

2. Kyrgyzstan talks bean exports to Pakistan; export potential exceeds 50,000 tonnes

Kyrgyzstan's Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, Erlist Akunbekov, met Pakistani Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Altamash Wazir Khan. At the outset, both sides noted the multiple high-level visits in a short time and stressed that the key agreements reached at head-of-state level must be turned into concrete content — projects, investment and tangible results for the citizens and business communities of both countries. The bilateral talks focused on exports of Kyrgyz-grown beans to Pakistan. Both sides attached special importance to establishing direct links between Kyrgyz producers and Pakistani importers, organising and taking part in bilateral trade fairs, and setting concrete supply volumes and deadlines. Statistics show Kyrgyzstan's bean export potential exceeds 50,000 tonnes, and Kyrgyz beans enjoy steady demand in overseas markets. In 2025, bean exports totalled US$67 million. Notably, in recent high-level visits both sides confirmed a wish to raise bilateral trade to US$200 million within two years. To reach that goal, they agreed to step up supplies of Kyrgyz agricultural products to the Pakistani market and to launch joint practical actions to expand bilateral trade.

Source: Kabar (Кабар) | Date: 2026-09-08

3. Nationwide grain harvest 75% complete; wheat 96% in

Across Kyrgyzstan, grain crops are 75% harvested. Turlubek Idrisov, head of the ministry's Plant Growing and Horticulture Directorate, told Kabar. Wheat is 96% harvested, barley 82% and corn 15%. Legumes including beans have just begun, at about 8–10%. Idrisov said: "The national average grain yield is 2.7–3 tonnes per hectare. Barley and wheat average 3 t/ha each. In southern regions and Chui region, grain yields reach 3.5–4 t/ha." The ministry said vegetables are 55% harvested, potatoes 30%, melons 60–65% and oilseeds 10%. Idrisov said: "Vegetables average 7 t/ha, potatoes 18–20 t/ha. Melons average nearly 20 t/ha. Sugar beet, cotton and tobacco have not yet begun." By region, Chui leads in grain at 3.04 t/ha (wheat 3.3, barley 2.96); Talas and Jalal-Abad are at 2.9 and 2.78 t/ha. Osh leads in vegetables and melons with 17 t/ha of vegetables and 18.75 t/ha of melons. Batken leads potatoes at 15.9 t/ha. Jalal-Abad leads oilseeds at 12 t/ha. Idrisov said winter-wheat sowing will begin within one to two weeks. "This year the plan is 200,000 hectares of winter grain crops. The relevant government resolution draft will be prepared and signed soon. Seed is sufficient and mineral fertiliser is being supplied. Moisture-conservation work is underway; about 300,000 hectares are planned this year." Autumn fuel supply is adequate. Sanzharbek Kokoshero, deputy head of the Anti-Monopoly Regulation Service, said farmers need about 40,000 tonnes of diesel for autumn field work; national reserves can meet 1–1.5 months of demand. "The state material-reserve fund holds government-procured fuel priced for farmers. Diesel is now 96 som per litre. Farmers can buy through rural administrations or regional representatives of the state reserve fund. Reserves are sufficient."

Source: Kabar (Кабар) | Date: 2026-09-16

4. Kyrgyz–Russian agro trade hits US$652.3 million; sides agree a fisheries-cooperation roadmap

During a working visit to Russia, Kyrgyzstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, Erlist Akunbekov, met Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev in St Petersburg. The Kyrgyz Cabinet announced this. The meeting took place on the margins of the 11th International Fisheries Forum (16–18 September). Statistics show that 2025 Kyrgyz–Russian bilateral trade in agricultural and processed products reached US$652.3 million, up US$88.5 million from 2024; in 2024 the figure was about US$563.8 million. Both sides noted the need to move from mere trade to joint production. In this context they stressed the importance of building joint processing enterprises, developing logistics and storage infrastructure, and adopting internationally standardised packaging. Akunbekov proposed drafting new bilateral joint projects for all-round cooperation in fisheries and agro-processing, while expanding the presence of Kyrgyz-made products in the Russian market. Patrushev said Russia is ready to advance these initiatives and deepen cooperation in the agro-industrial complex. After the talks, the two sides agreed to draft a joint roadmap for fisheries-cooperation projects. The forum hosted Seafood Expo Russia 2026, with national pavilions from India, Iran, China, Kyrgyzstan and Russia; fisheries entrepreneurs attended. Akunbekov visited the expo to provide state-level support for participating Kyrgyz aquatic-product producers, including exchanging experience with fisheries entrepreneurs already in international markets, finding partners and promoting Kyrgyz exports.

Source: Kabar (Кабар) | Date: 2026-09-19

5. Kyrgyzstan temporarily bans fish-feed imports for six months (Cabinet Order No. 606)

Kyrgyzstan's Cabinet introduced a temporary ban on fish-feed imports for six months, effective 10 September 2026, covering "other" fish feeds under HS code 230990. Cabinet Order No. 606 was adopted on 9 September and took effect on 10 September. The ban does not apply to feed produced in EAEU countries, transit goods, feed for research, breeding and trial purposes, or feed supplied under international agreements. Fish feed for which importers had paid before 9 September and which veterinary authorities confirmed is also allowed. A clause permits importing raw materials for fish-feed production with written confirmation from the relevant department. The Cabinet said the move aims to support domestic fish-feed production, develop aquaculture, ensure food security and reduce dependence on imports. The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry was tasked with compiling a list of domestic producers, monitoring fish-feed market supply and taking measures to develop production and exports.

Source: Kyrgyzstan financial media (24.kg / Akchabar) | Date: 2026-09-10

6. Kyrgyzstan temporarily bans livestock exports for six months (Cabinet Order No. 607)

Kyrgyzstan's Cabinet introduced a temporary ban on exporting cattle, horses, sheep and goats for six months. Cabinet Order No. 607 was adopted on 10 September and took effect from the date of official publication. Statistics show that in January–June 2026 Kyrgyzstan exported 14,823 cattle worth US$3.2 million, all to Uzbekistan, a 32% volume increase year on year. Over the same period it also exported 194 horses, donkeys and mules worth US$84,800, of which 170 went to Uzbekistan and 24 to Kazakhstan. Kyrgyzstan exported no sheep or goats in 2026; a year earlier it exported 10,030 worth US$981,400. The ban does not apply to transit, racehorses, horses exported as gifts, pedigree sheep, livestock not raised in Kyrgyzstan, or air-transported horses and donkeys.

Source: Kyrgyzstan financial media (24.kg / Akchabar) | Date: 2026-09-10

Uzbekistan

1. January–July foreign trade US$49.5 billion; fruit-and-vegetable exports US$1.025 billion, 1.28 million tonnes

In January–July 2026 Uzbekistan's foreign trade turnover reached US$49.5 billion, up US$3.7 billion (+8.1%) year on year. On imports, machinery and transport equipment led at US$9.7 billion (32.8% of the import total); manufactured goods US$4.4 billion, chemicals and related products US$3.6 billion, and food and live animals US$3.3 billion (+41.9%). Exports overall fell, but non-gold exports grew strongly to US$9.8 billion (+27.7%). Service exports rose 35.3% to US$7.3 billion, of which tourism accounted for 53.8% and transport services 31.7%. Textile exports rose 26.6% to US$1.9 billion; fruit-and-vegetable exports reached US$1.025 billion, with volume of 1.28 million tonnes. Over the period Uzbekistan expanded trade relations with more than 200 countries. China remained the largest partner at US$11.26 billion, followed by Russia (US$8.13 billion), Kazakhstan (US$3.27 billion), Turkey (US$1.65 billion) and Afghanistan (US$1.23 billion).

Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-09-02

2. Uzbekistan and Russia discuss new agro projects: 7,000 Holstein breeding cows and 500,000 tonnes of wheat per year

Uzbekistan and Russia are studying new cooperation projects in the agro-industrial complex, including localising dairy and confectionery production, and supplying breeding cattle and grain. On 11 September in Moscow, Davron Vakhabov, chairman of the Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, met Ali Uzdzhuev, board chairman of STEP Agricultural Holding. They discussed prospects for joint projects in Uzbekistan's agro-industrial complex. One proposal is to supply Uzbekistan with 7,000 Holstein breeding cows annually, later distributed to households in mahallas (communities) across the regions. The breed is known for high yields, with some individuals producing over 40 litres of milk per day. The initiative is expected to support household businesses, create stable incomes and help families escape poverty. The two sides also discussed the possibility of supplying Uzbekistan with 500,000 tonnes of Russian wheat via the Caspian Sea, tied to Russia's bumper harvest this year. They also examined logistics routes using the ports of Astrakhan and Makhachkala. After the talks, the Chamber and STEP agreed to continue cooperation in these directions and to develop concrete mechanisms for joint projects.

Source: UzDaily (Ўзбекистон бизнес) | Date: 2026-09-12

3. H1 agriculture, forestry and fisheries attracted 26 trillion soum in foreign investment and loans, +54% year on year

According to the State Statistics Committee, in January–June 2026 Uzbekistan's agriculture, forestry and fisheries attracted foreign investment and loans on a fixed-asset-investment basis of 26 trillion soum (~US$2.2 billion), 10% of the national total of foreign investment and loans. The scale has grown markedly: H1 2022 was 3 trillion soum (~US$254.6 million), 2023 2.4 trillion (~US$203.7 million), 2024 6.1 trillion (~US$517.7 million), 2025 16.9 trillion (~US$1.4 billion) and 2026 26 trillion (~US$2.2 billion). Thus H1 2026 foreign investment and loans in the sector rose about 54% year on year and nearly 8.7-fold versus H1 2022. Agriculture, forestry and fisheries remain a major part of Uzbekistan's economy. In H1 2026 the sector accounted for 15% of gross value added; output rose 4.7% year on year. Analysts say the rapid inflow indicates rising investor interest in Uzbek agriculture, likely driven by opportunities in food production, processing, irrigation, logistics and export-oriented agriculture; the key challenge is converting the fast inflow into higher productivity and export capacity.

Source: Geostrategic Consensus (azerbaijantimes.org) | Date: 2026-09-15

4. Uzbekistan launches nationwide monitoring of cotton-picking labour conditions for 2026

Uzbekistan will conduct nationwide monitoring of cotton-picking labour conditions from 25 September to 31 October, aiming to prevent child and forced labour in the fields. The Federation of Trade Unions of Uzbekistan announced the launch at an 18 September press conference. The monitoring group comprises 65 experts — five per region — including sector union representatives, federation labour inspectors, and members of the Chamber of Commerce and the national association of non-state non-profit organisations. Every Monday and Saturday at 7 a.m., team leaders receive random GPS coordinates for up to three locations in their region and must reach the site by 9 a.m. for inspection; daily data and photos are reported to the federation. From 15 September, the federation and its branches have maintained 24-hour duty throughout the cotton season. Labour-rights violations can be reported via short number 1092, the federation website or its Telegram bot. Authorities have put up 200 banners nationwide and plan 10,000 more posters, and will distribute 200,000 leaflets to pickers. Federation deputy chair Bakhtiyor Makhmadaliev said the current system is completely different from 2020 or even a decade ago, when forced labour carried no administrative or criminal liability; now the Administrative Liability Code has stiffened penalties and the Criminal Code added a dedicated article. He said recent monitoring recorded no child or forced-labour cases, but persistent problems include wage arrears, contract-less employment and substandard conditions. Last season's monitoring found: in 2025 no child or forced labour, but 166 wage-arrears cases (involving 8,752 pickers), 227 contract-less employment cases (9,075 people), and 1,222 pickers at 24 farms and clusters lacking necessary work and rest conditions. The State Labour Inspectorate under the Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction inspected 986 farms, fining 116 officials a combined 397.44 million soum; its hotline (1176) and Telegram bot received 222 wage-arrears complaints, with pickers later compensated 1.785 billion soum. The 2026 monitoring's overall conclusions will be published in December 2026.

Source: Tashkent Times | Date: 2026-09-18

5. Uzbekistan working group visits Poland to push farm products into the European market

A Ministry of Agriculture working group paid a working visit to Warsaw, Poland, from 14 to 17 September. During the visit the two sides discussed ways to bring Uzbek agricultural products into the European market, develop trade and logistics links, and expand bilateral cooperation. In talks with Poland's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, they reviewed priority cooperation directions, exchanging views on supporting bilateral agricultural trade, establishing joint logistics and trade centres, and developing direct cooperation between research institutions. To assess supply and sales opportunities for Uzbek products in the Polish market, the group visited major Warsaw trade-logistics complexes and met the management of the Bronisze Trade Centre — one of Central and Eastern Europe's largest wholesale food markets — and the Praga Gielda complex. Talks focused on the possibility of importing and distributing Uzbek products through these complexes to the Polish market. Their management expressed willingness to provide practical assistance in promoting Uzbek products. In talks with Polish entrepreneurs, the two sides examined establishing a logistics centre to expand sales of Uzbek enterprises' products and agreed to hold trilateral talks with the involvement of the Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Another important direction is personnel training and practical-experience exchange. The group met representatives of the agricultural producer Green Crops to discuss expanding internship programmes for Uzbek students. During the visit the group also attended an event at the Uzbek embassy in Poland marking the country's 35th independence anniversary.

Source: UzDaily (Ўзбекистон бизнес) | Date: 2026-09-19

6. Uzbekistan strengthens judicial protection in agriculture: Agro-Industrial Complex Development Agency exempt from state duties

Uzbekistan has strengthened the legal-protection mechanism for agricultural operators. The relevant provisions were made by Law No. O'RQ-1170, adopted on 9 September 2026, amending and supplementing a series of legal acts including the State Duty Law. Under the new rules, the "Agro-Industrial Complex Development Agency" under the Ministry of Agriculture is exempt from state duties when filing suits with civil and economic courts. The exemption applies to applications, complaints and statements the agency files to protect its own rights and lawful interests, and to protect the rights and lawful interests of fruit-and-vegetable growers and processors and greenhouse operators. Thus, within the scope of protecting the interests of those categories, the agency may file suits exempt from state duties. The law took effect from the date of official publication.

Source: UzDaily (Ўзбекистон бизнес) | Date: 2026-09-11

7. Subsidy allocation and insurance system in agriculture to be improved

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed proposals to improve the subsidy and insurance allocation system in agriculture. In recent years state support to agriculture has expanded and subsidy disbursement has been progressively digitalised. This year agricultural subsidy programmes grew to 29 areas and 91 types, with total allocations of 2.7 trillion soum. Application processes in some areas were launched earlier and payment terms were sharply shortened. The report stressed that subsidies should be tied not just to cost recovery but to concrete results. It recommends transitioning next year from a "fund disbursement" model to a "performance subsidy" model. The new system will focus on productivity, water and energy efficiency, and the output obtained from resource use. All data will be drawn automatically from the information systems of relevant government agencies, with no manual intervention. Every subsidy beneficiary will receive an electronic passport whose results are monitored online. Initially the mechanism will be used to promote water-saving technologies. After disbursement, water use, productivity and water efficiency will be assessed over two to three years. If set indicators are not met, a subsidy-recovery mechanism will be triggered. This will ensure public funds are used in a targeted and effective way. By 2027, the plan is to insure 45,000 agricultural enterprises, raise agricultural insurance coverage to 60%, train 500 independent experts, and fully digitalise insurance services. The new scheme will prioritise risk prevention alongside loss compensation. It was proposed to channel 3–5% of insurance premiums into a special fund for livestock vaccination, prevention and veterinary services, cotton and grain crop bioprotection measures, and construction of natural-disaster protection facilities for horticulture and viticulture.

Source: UzA (ЎзА) | Date: 2026-09-25

Tajikistan

1. 35th independence anniversary: agricultural output up 122-fold in 25 years; basic-food self-sufficiency exceeds 85%

Over the past 25 years Tajikistan's agricultural output grew 122-fold, reaching 85 billion somoni in 2025. Over this period grain output grew 6-fold, potatoes 12-fold, vegetables 11-fold and fruit 48-fold. These figures were stated by President Emomali Rahmon in his address for Tajikistan's 35th independence anniversary on 8 September. Notably, total agricultural output is 3.7 times that of 1991. The agricultural sector accounts for over 21% of GDP and employs more than 61% of the population. The head of state stressed: "Today, the level of providing the people with basic food through our own production has exceeded 85%." Thanks to measures taken, the population's supply level for basic food relative to physiological consumption norms has risen. Since independence, output growth has been: potatoes +135.4%, vegetables 2.4-fold, onions 4-fold, carrots 3.9-fold, melons and gourds 3.9-fold, fruit and grapes 100%, meat 104.1%, milk 100% and eggs 74%. Agriculture is one of the most important sectors of Tajikistan's national economy; realising the state's food-security strategy goals depends heavily on its development.

Source: Khovar (Ховар) | Date: 2026-09-13

2. Tajikistan allocates 86,000 hectares for nurseries and seedling farms, serving the 2040 greening plan

Tajikistan has allocated 86,000 hectares for building nurseries and seedling farms. This is part of the country's greening plan to 2040, which proposes planting up to 2 billion trees nationwide. Other agriculture- and climate-related information from the same period: Tajikistan submitted its new climate plan NDC 3.0, committing to cut greenhouse-gas emissions by 15% by 2035; the document also sets out measures to adapt to climate change and develop green solutions, with a separate section on social issues including protecting vulnerable groups, gender equality, inclusion and creating green jobs. The document was prepared by government agencies, experts and civil-society representatives with technical support from the UN Development Programme (UNDP). In addition, in H1 2026 Tajikistan registered 741 natural-disaster emergencies, causing 12 deaths and nearly 53 million somoni in losses; experts called for stronger early-warning systems, glacial-lake monitoring, public disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience.

Source: Khovar (Ховар) | Date: 2026-09-04

3. Cotton output more than halved year on year: only 68,200 tonnes harvested by 20 September, 17.3% of annual target

According to the Agriculture Ministry, by 20 September Tajikistan had harvested 68,207 tonnes of cotton — 17.3% of the annual target and down more than half from the same period last year. For the 2026 harvest the authorities set a target of 394,700 tonnes from 164,800 hectares. By comparison, by 20 September 2025 farmers had harvested 142,844 tonnes. Thus the current harvest is 74,600 tonnes (52.2%) below the year-earlier level. Despite the slower pace, the 2026 target is only slightly above last year's actual output — in 2025 Tajikistan harvested 392,200 tonnes. Harvesting remains slow in some cities and districts, with collections below 10% of plan. Relevant departments have urged farmers to make full use of favourable weather, add machinery and labour, and ensure timely delivery of harvested cotton to collection points. Cotton exports remain predominantly raw material. According to the State Customs Committee under the government, in 2025 the country exported about 93,000 tonnes of cotton fibre worth US$142.1 million; 11,240 tonnes of cotton yarn worth US$25.05 million; and 3,250 tonnes of fabric and finished textiles worth US$9.45 million. Under the "State Programme for Innovative Development of Cotton Cultivation 2026–2030," Tajikistan plans to introduce modern cultivation techniques, expand mulch and drip irrigation, and raise domestic cotton-processing capacity.

Source: Sputnik Tajikistan (Спутник Таджикистан) via Jinqiao Textile Network | Date: 2026-09-21

4. Rasht-district juice plant and cold-storage facility commissioned: annual juice capacity up to 1.2 million litres, cold storage 600 tonnes

On 11 September, during a working visit to Rasht district, President Emomali Rahmon inaugurated a juice-production plant, a subsidiary of the district's food industry. The plant was set up to develop domestic production, process local raw materials, increase import-substituting output, and supply high-quality products to the domestic market. The president was informed that construction began in 2023, was completed in August 2026, and involved 30 specialists. On commissioning, 17 local residents gained permanent jobs. The plant is equipped with the necessary production facilities and is designed to produce juice in glass containers from 0.5 to 1 litre. Its seasonal capacity is 540,000 litres and annual output up to 1.2 million litres. Raw materials come from district farms; finished products are distributed to surrounding areas and other cities and districts of the republic. The plant also plans to export products overseas. Subsequently, Rahmon unveiled the plant's cold-storage facility. The cold store totals 500 m² with total chamber capacity of 600 tonnes of product; the plant warehouse is designed to store up to 200 tonnes. Such storage capacity will provide more opportunities for preserving produce, preventing loss, creating favourable conditions for local raw-material processing, and supplying fresh domestic products to the consumer market.

Source: Khovar (Ховар) | Date: 2026-09-11

5. Khatlon region accounts for over 53% of Tajikistan's total agricultural output

Today Khatlon region accounts for over 53% of Tajikistan's total agricultural output, while leading in production of cotton, grain, vegetables, melons, fruit and other produce. On 4 September, President Emomali Rahmon, in a meeting with Khatlon leaders and activists, analysed the district's education, health and culture since independence, noting that the government has laid solid foundations for developing these areas. He stressed that over the years a total of 17.7 billion somoni went to education development in the region, 7.4 billion to health, and 1 billion to culture.

Source: Khovar (Ховар) | Date: 2026-09-04

6. Tajikistan plans to harvest over 408,000 tonnes of livestock feed

In Tajikistan the winter cattle-feed harvesting campaign continues. In 2026 the plan is to harvest 297,630.9 tonnes of coarse fodder and 110,610 tonnes of succulent fodder nationwide. As of 14 August, the country had harvested 222,085.9 tonnes of coarse fodder and 32,017.6 tonnes of succulent fodder. Creation of protected areas continues. Against the backdrop of climate change and water scarcity, timely feed harvesting and building sufficient reserves are seen as an important part of ensuring food security and sustainable livestock development. Tajikistan has 3.8 million hectares of pasture — the main feed source for livestock. To raise pasture grass yields, the "Tajikistan Pasture Development Plan 2023–2027" is being implemented. Natural feed sources include meadows and pastures. In addition, annual and perennial fodder grasses, root crops, grain-legume mixed crops, corn and other feed types are grown. Feed collection is considered the foundation of livestock development. By expanding fodder crop area, effectively using meadows and pastures, growing high-yield fodder crops, adopting modern storage and raising feed nutritional value, the production and accumulation of herds is ensured. Strengthening the feed base is one of the main factors in livestock development. Providing animals with basic feed to set standards helps raise productivity and product quality, prevent metabolic disease, improve reproductive capacity and prevent illness.

Source: Khovar (Ховар) | Date: 2026-09-29

Turkmenistan

1. President orders timely settlement with wheat and cotton producers; autumn sowing and cotton harvest advance in parallel

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov has instructed that settlements be completed in a timely manner with wheat and cotton producers and agricultural service enterprises. The instruction was issued in a news release from the Turkmen government press service. It was given by the president at a working meeting with Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Tangryguly Atakhallyev and the regional governors. The release said: "President Serdar Berdimuhamedov instructed to ensure timely payment for work completed between wheat and cotton producers and service providers and institutions in the regions." The instruction comes as Turkmenistan carries out its main autumn agricultural operations. Nationwide sowing of wheat for the 2027 harvest began on 2 September, and cotton harvesting was set to start on 9 September. At the meeting, Atakhallyev reported progress in preparing the regions' cotton harvest and the steady advance of wheat sowing backed by agricultural machinery and quality seed supply. The meeting also covered winter potato and other grain crop planting, including rice in Dashoguz and Lebap regions and sugar beet in Mary region. According to FAO data, agriculture is one of the pillar sectors of Turkmenistan's economy, 12% of GDP, employing a considerable share of the workforce. The sector mainly grows strategic crops such as cotton and wheat, plus vegetables, fruit and melons. Investment flows are mainly state-funded, prioritising irrigation-system construction, land-improvement projects, agricultural-machinery procurement, and processing facilities for crop and livestock farming.

Source: Trend (Тренд) | Date: 2026-09-08

2. Turkmenistan officially launches the 2026 large-scale cotton harvest

Turkmenistan's traditional "White Harvest" — the large-scale cotton-picking campaign — has officially begun, with the start date approved by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov at a Cabinet meeting. On 9 September, farmers across all regions simultaneously began picking "white gold," opening the season with the traditional "white motorcade." The development of the domestic agro-industrial complex and cotton cultivation rests on large-scale transformation, active application of innovative technologies, improved land-improvement conditions, and scientific cultivation techniques tailored to local soil and climate. The state prioritises comprehensive support for agricultural workers, supplying tenant farmers and farmer associations with necessary machinery, quality seed, mineral fertiliser and irrigation water on preferential terms under the current socio-economic development state programme. To keep the harvest running smoothly, round-the-clock on-site machinery maintenance is organised, and good working and rest conditions are created for machine operators, drivers and pickers. The country's acceptance centres and ginneries are fully prepared to receive the new cotton, and experts from Turkmenistan's state standards agency will strictly inspect incoming raw-material quality — raw material that is both a key input for the domestic textile industry and a major export commodity. The festive launch was marked by the first loaded trucks and tractor trailers arriving at acceptance points, and an exhibition of agricultural machinery and processing-industry products. Provincial song-and-dance and folklore ensembles prepared rich performances for participants. At the ceremony, on behalf of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, valuable gifts were presented to outstanding producers — bumper-harvest tenant farmers and cotton growers.

Source: TDH (TDH) | Date: 2026-09-09

3. Regions announce 2026 cotton-procurement targets: national plan ~1.25 million tonnes

Following the president's instructions at the Cabinet meeting, all regions have completed preparations for organising this agricultural season's cotton harvest, and the 2026 cotton-picking campaign has officially begun. Regional cotton-production targets and support conditions are as follows: Ahal — 280,000 tonnes from 135,000 ha, 217 modern pickers and 1,000+ trucks deployed, ginning enterprises and acceptance centres ready. Balkan — 16,000 tonnes from 13,000 ha, modern pickers and dozens of trucks fully engaged. Dashoguz — 275,000 tonnes from 140,000 ha, 200+ pickers, 10 ginneries, 47 acceptance centres and 1,600+ dedicated trucks. Lebap — 320,000 tonnes from 130,000 ha, 218 John Deere pickers, 11 ginneries and 38 acceptance centres. Mary — 359,000 tonnes from 162,000 ha to be delivered to the state, 224 modern pickers plus supporting ginneries and acceptance centres. Summing these, the national 2026 cotton-procurement plan is about 1.25 million tonnes, with cotton area about 580,000 hectares. In addition, Turkmenistan has taken measures to ensure fire and road safety, crop-quality control, and timely payment to farmers. In the 35th year of independence, Turkmen cotton growers expressed confidence in meeting production targets.

Source: Turkmenistan media (turkmenportal.com / business.com.tm) | Date: 2026-09-10

4. FAO and Turkmenistan sign a beef-cattle breeding development project agreement

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Turkmenistan launched a project to improve national beef-cattle breeding and artificial-insemination services. The project agreement was signed by Gochmyrat Atayev, chairman of Turkmenistan's State Association of Livestock and Poultry Breeding, and Viorel Gutu, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia, at an online ceremony; the project budget is US$180,000. The implementation period is September 2026 to February 2028, aiming to increase the country's stock of improved-breed cattle and strengthen the state's capacity to provide reliable artificial-insemination services. The project will also promote modern livestock-breeding methods using digital technology. Over the next 18 months the project will develop a national beef-cattle breeding roadmap and standard operating procedures for laboratory and field work; introduce a livestock-breeding information system to improve genetic and pedigree records; and compile an updated national catalogue of improved breeds. FAO and national partners will review the legal framework and technical measures in the livestock sector, upgrade laboratory equipment, and strengthen capacity-building for AI specialists and veterinarians. The project also expects to support farmers by combining modern equipment with practical-skills training, focusing on rural communities and households that depend on livestock.

Source: FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia | Date: 2026-09-16

Source compilation: Xinjiang Agricultural University Central Asia Research Center (WeChat public account «新疆农业大学中亚研究中心»). Follow that account on WeChat for updates.