Central Asia Cooperation

Hotspot tracker and China–Central Asia cooperation; sourced from WeChat account Xinjiang Agricultural University Central Asia Research Center

All15 Hotspot Tracker10 China–Central Asia Cooperation5

2026-10-28
China–Central Asia Agricultural Cooperation Update (Issue 5, 2026)01. General Administration of Customs Access to Central Asian Agricultural Products: Kyrgyzstan Fresh Berries Approved to be Exposed to China (October 20) source: General Administration of Customs announcement of the General Administration of Customs (No. 149 of 2026) Starting from October 20, 2026, Kyrgyzstan will allow the import of fresh berries (raspberries, blackcurrants, blackberries) that meet the quarantine requirements. China-Kyrgyzstan agricultural product access cooperation will be further expanded. According to the announcement, berry orchards and packaging factories exported to China must be reviewed by Kyrgyzstan and approved by China for registration. The registration information includes name, address and registration code. Before the export season each year, Kyrgyzstan will provide a list and China will publish it on official website after review so as to trace the source. China is concerned about a total of five kinds of quarantine pests: woolly floret A, pear fire blight, gooseberry monocystic powdery fungus, tobacco ring spot virus, dahlia veratella. In terms of pre-export management, orchards must implement Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) under the supervision of Kyrgyzstan, monitor every 2 weeks from bud to harvest and keep control records; packaging factories must process and package under the supervision of Kyrgyzstan, maintain hygiene and prevent re-infection, store non-exported fruits separately, pick and classify after elimination, and establish a traceability system that can be traced back to the registered orchards; the packaging materials shall be clean and sanitary, the wooden packaging shall comply with ISPM 15, and the packaging boxes and pallets shall be marked with the name of the fruit, country, place of origin, name or registration number of the orchard and packing factory and the words "to the People's Republic of China. Kyrgyzstan shall conduct 2% sampling inspection according to each batch (no phytosanitary problem can be reduced to 1% for two years), and the whole batch shall not be exported if quarantine pests are found in vivo, branches and leaves or soil. The qualified goods shall be issued a phytosanitary certificate according to ISPM 12, indicating the name or registration number of the orchard, packaging factory and the container number, together with an additional statement that China is not concerned about pests. When the goods arrive at the Chinese port, the customs will check the entry animal and plant quarantine license, plant quarantine certificate and logo, and enter the country from the port allowing the import of fruits. Goods from unregistered orchards and packaging factories are not allowed to enter the country. If quarantine pests or soil and plant residues are found, they will be returned, destroyed or destroyed. If they do not conform to China's food safety laws and regulations and national standards, they will be returned or destroyed. 02. Jiangxi Jinggang tangerine was exported to Kyrgyzstan for the first time, with more than 260 tons leaving the country through two ports (October 19) source: Nanchang Customs nanchang Customs reported on October 19 that a batch of Jiangxi Jinggang tangerines weighing more than 260 tons were shipped from Xiajiang County of Ji'an City after passing the inspection and quarantine by Ji'an Customs and sent to Kyrgyzstan via Horgos and Baktu ports. This is the first time that Jinggang tangerines are exported to the Central Asian market, and it is also another breakthrough for Jiangxi agricultural products to open up the Central Asian market. The export enterprise is Jiangxi Juxian Fruit Industry Co., Ltd., whose products were previously sold in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. In response to the quarantine access requirements of Central Asian countries, Ji 'an Customs has standardized the pest control standards of the imported countries, carried out technical assistance in registered orchards, guided the standardized management of outbound fruit orchards and packaging factories, and standardized the whole chain of field pest monitoring, pesticide use control, picking and sorting and packaging traceability. At the same time, the "green channel" for the export of agricultural products will be opened, and the "cloud issuance" of inspection and quarantine certificates will be realized, compress customs clearance time and ensure the quality of fresh fruits. In the first three quarters of this year, Ji'an City declared the value of agricultural and food products exported to 1.216 billion yuan, up 66.44 percent from the same period last year. 03. Ningxia exported 4,216 live cattle to Uzbekistan in the first three quarters, achieving a "zero breakthrough" (October 21) source: Yinchuan Customs yinchuan Customs announced on October 21 that in the first three quarters of this year, Ningxia exported 4,216 live cattle to Uzbekistan with a value of 72.94 million yuan. Ningxia's live cattle exports have grown from scratch, achieving a "zero breakthrough". In order to open up the whole chain from the farm to the port, Yinchuan Customs took the initiative to connect with the Uzbek embassy in China, formulate the Animal Health Certificate, and systematically sort out the import supervision policy, quarantine requirements and declaration process of live cattle in Uzbekistan. For territorial customs declaration, quarantine inspection, certificate application, live cattle isolation, testing, transportation supervision and port inversion and other pain points, one by one to promote solution. Customs clearance efficiency will be improved simultaneously: on the basis of the integration of "territorial customs declaration, port inspection and release" and "immediate, immediate check and release", a standardized disposal mechanism for domestic live cattle exports will be established, online application, advance isolation inspection, appointment inspection and rapid certification will be implemented, and "cloud issuance" quarantine certificate and remote territorial inspection will be promoted relying on the construction of intelligent customs. In terms of coordination mechanism, Yinchuan Customs and the Agricultural and Rural Department of Ningxia Hui Autonomous region have established a cooperation mechanism to carry out pre-examination and regular inspection on the isolation conditions, biosafety measures and daily epidemic disease monitoring of the breeding sites to be exported, forming a mode of "pre-check by the Agricultural and Rural Department and customs approval and release"; at the same time, it has strengthened the linkage with Urumqi Customs across customs areas to seamlessly connect with the port, such links as changing, inspection and transit, coordinate animal husbandry, quarantine, transportation and other departments to open exclusive green channel. Yinchuan Customs said that it will continue to deepen its gatekeeping services and carry out a three-year special campaign to support the export of agricultural food products, so as to open up the international market for more characteristic agricultural food products in Ningxia. 04. Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Protection Zone and Kazakhstan National Grain Trade Group signed a cooperation agreement to jointly build a cross-border industrial chain of grain and oil in China and Kazakhstan (October 21-23) source: Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Bonded Zone Management Committee from October 21 to 23, during the 2026 "Tianjin trip of multinational enterprises" in Tianjin, the Management Committee of Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Free Trade Zone, together with Tianjin Food Group and Tianjin Branch of China CITIC Bank, signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with the State Food Trade Group of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and carried out trade cooperation around wheat, sunflower seed oil, linseed oil and other oils and oils. Build a cross-border industrial chain of grain and oil in Kazakhstan that integrates supply, trade, logistics and finance. The agreement was signed by Li Gongliang, Secretary of the Party Committee and Director of the Management Committee of Dongjiang Comprehensive Protection Zone. Dongjiang will rely on the functions of Tianjin Port Hub and Comprehensive Insurance Zone to improve port logistics, cold chain storage and cross-border financial facilities, and expand the trade map of agricultural products and cold chain food between Asia and Europe. 05. Signing of Kiwifruit Export Strategic Cooperation in Meixian County, Baoji City, Shaanxi Province, Central Asia Shaanxi Chamber of Commerce Docking Overseas Sales Channels (October 23) source: Shaanxi Meixian County Party Committee Propaganda Department on October 23, the signing ceremony of kiwifruit export strategic cooperation in Meixian County, Shaanxi Province was held. Ji Yanwei, President of Shaanxi Chamber of Commerce in Central Asia, Guo Airong, Secretary General, Feng Wei, deputy head of Meixian County, and the person in charge of the United Front Work Department of the county Party committee, the Kiwifruit Park of the county, the Agricultural and Rural Bureau of the county, and the special class for promoting consumption of cultural tourism attended. At the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on the development of kiwifruit industry and overseas market expansion in Meixian County. Central Asia Shaanxi Trading Co., Ltd. and Shaanxi New Silk Road Kiwifruit (Group) Co., Ltd. signed a strategic cooperation agreement on the spot, which will give full play to their respective resource advantages, strengthen resource docking and business cooperation, expand kiwifruit overseas sales channels, and enhance brand influence and market competitiveness. Meixian County is an important kiwifruit producing area in my country, and the kiwifruit industry has become an important characteristic industry that drives agricultural efficiency and farmers' income. 06. China-Kazakhstan Agricultural Cooperation Project Set Kazakhstan's Record Yield of Many Crops (October 21) source: Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Academy of Agricultural Sciences the cooperation project between China and Kazakhstan led by the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Academy of Agricultural Sciences completed multi-point yield measurement in October 2026: the yield of cotton seed cotton in Lihua 1400 reached 7605kg/ha, a record for Kazakhstan's cotton yield, with the average income of local cotton farmers increasing by more than 30%. Jett Suzhou 12000 mu of corn demonstration field yielded 1303.2kg per mu, setting a new record for Kazakhstan's large-scale corn yield. Oil sunflower demonstration field yielded 242.23kg per mu. The project has trained more than 1000 people, built 12000 mu of high-yield demonstration fields and 30000 mu of radiation promotion. 07. Kyrgyzstan Field Exhibition of Shanghai Agricultural Expo and Landing of China-Kyrgyzstan Apple Demonstration Garden (October 25) source: Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University the 2026 SCO Agricultural Expo Kyrgyzstan Field Exhibition and Apple Dwarf Planting Technology Training Activity was held in the China-Kyrgyzstan Apple Demonstration Park from October 16 to 18. More than 60 Kyrgyz fruit growers and enterprise representatives, 16 Chinese-funded enterprises in Kyrgyzstan and 8 enterprises in Shaanxi Province participated. Eight Chinese high-quality apple varieties have been introduced into the demonstration garden, and Kyrgyzstan's first standardized low-rootstock apple demonstration garden has been built, increasing the average yield of local apples by 300kg per mu. 6000 Shaanxi green-rootstock apple seedlings have been bearing fruit in Syer River Prefecture. 08. Lanzhou New District Comprehensive Protection Zone Built Central Asia Grain and Oil Processing and Distribution Center, Selected Products Exhibition Area Landing in China-Kazakhstan Horgos International Border Cooperation Center (October 20) source: Gansu Daily the selection exhibition area of Lanzhou New District Comprehensive Bonded Zone landed in the China-Kazakhstan Horgos International Border Cooperation Center, attracting more than 30 enterprises and more than 200 categories in the province to appear. The exhibits cover six categories of characteristic agricultural products. The comprehensive protection zone is building three distribution centers around grain and oil, non-ferrous metals and cross-border e-commerce, including the Central Asian grain and oil processing and distribution center. Last year, China Kyrgyzstan Uzbekistan railway public transport volume ranked first in China. Merchants who purchase goods in the selection display area 09. Zhengzhou Central Asia Agricultural Products Distribution Center Opens Kazakhstan Grain and Feed Return Train (October 20) source: Zhongyu Port Group china-Henan Port Group has invested a total of 10.3 billion yuan to build Zhengzhou International Dry Port and other key projects. The train has reached more than 140 cities in more than 40 countries and regions, with a total of more than 20000 trains. In the first half of 2026, Henan China-Europe train has 1859 trains, up 22.1 year-on-year, accounting for 10% of the national total, accounting for more than 60% of the return journey. The channel has changed from one-way export to two-way trade. On this channel network, the Central Asian direction is the key layout: since March this year, the regional distribution center of Central Asian agricultural products has landed in Zhengzhou International Dry Port, opened up Kazakhstan's grain and feed return train channel, and has taken on nearly 100 return trains, with an estimated annual volume of more than 350000 tons. At the same time, Central Asian routes such as Zhengzhou-Turkmenistan Agara Station and China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Public Transportation have been opened, and according to the "front warehouse after trade" plan to build six major trade centers for imported timber, metal, grain and oil, to promote the "transit flow" into "landing retention". 10. The 33rd Yangling Agricultural High-tech Conference and the 2026 Shanghai Agricultural Expo opened with agricultural officials from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan attending (October 25) source: Shaanxi Provincial People's Government on October 25, the 33rd China Yangling Agricultural High-tech Achievements Expo and the 2026 SCO Agricultural Expo opened at the same time in Yangling Demonstration Zone. The level of attendance in Central Asia was the highest on that day: Ashirbayev, Governor of Kyrgyzstan's Chuhe Prefecture, Khazipova, Deputy Minister of Agriculture of Kazakhstan, Bakhromochong, Deputy Minister of Agriculture of Tajikistan, and Ohumov, Adviser to the Minister of Agriculture of Uzbekistan. Ilzayev, Deputy Secretary-General of the China-Central Asia Mechanism, also attended. All 27 SCO countries participated in the Shanghai Agricultural Expo, with the first 15000 square meters of independent exhibition hall. On October 25, the 33rd China Yangling Agricultural High-tech Conference and the 2026 Shanghai Cooperation Organization Agricultural Fair opened in Yangling Demonstration Zone. Wang Guangqian, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and chairman of the 11th National Committee of the Chinese Association for Science and Technology, delivered a keynote speech and announced the opening This issue is compiled from the WeChat account 「Xinjiang Agricultural University Central Asia Research Center」. Search for 新疆农业大学中亚研究中心 in WeChat to follow.
2026-10-27
China–Central Asia Agricultural Cooperation Update (Issue 4, 2026)01. Premier Li Qiang visits Uzbekistan: China and Uzbekistan list "modern agriculture" as one of the three major deepening directions (10-17, Tashkent) source: Chinese government website on October 17, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council paid a visit to Uzbekistan and held talks with the Uzbek side. The two sides clearly listed "modern agriculture" as one of the three major directions of deepening cooperation (the other two are energy resources and artificial intelligence), and expressed their willingness to import more high-quality and characteristic commodities from Ukraine and expand trade in agricultural products; Ukraine also puts agriculture as a priority area of cooperation after economic and trade investment. During the talks, the two sides witnessed the signing of cooperation documents in the fields of economy and trade, education, customs, health, and poverty reduction. Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Uzbek Prime Minister Ali Bov in Tashkent 02. Premier Li Qiang of the State Council visited Tajikistan: Tajikistan listed "expanding the export category of agricultural products to China" as a specific demand (10-18, Dushanbe) source: Xinhua on October 18, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council held talks with Tajik Prime Minister Rasulzoda in Dushanbe. During the talks, the Tajik side clearly put forward four specific demands related to agriculture: expanding the list and quantity of products exported to China, signing a new protocol to facilitate the entry of Tajik producers into the Chinese market, developing joint ventures for cotton processing to finished product production, and deepening cooperation in the food industry and processing. Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Tajik Prime Minister Rasul Zoda in Dushanbe 03. The 4th China-Turkmenistan Scientific Innovation Forum (Wuhan): Focus on Cotton Industry Chain Cooperation (10-15, Wuhan) source: Ministry of Science and Technology from October 13th to 15th, the 4th China-Turkmenistan Science and Innovation Forum was held in Wuhan, co-sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Turkmenistan Academy of Sciences. At the forum, Zhang Xianlong, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, made a theme report on "Overview of China's Cotton Science and Technology Development and China-Turkey Cotton Industry Cooperation Vision", and proposed the establishment of international cooperation projects, the establishment of a cotton science and technology innovation center, the establishment of a regular bilateral exchange mechanism, and the promotion of mutual visits of scientific research personnel. Five cooperation suggestions including joint training and promoting exchanges between the seed industry and leading enterprises of smart agricultural equipment. Shihezi University displayed the sand table of Xinjiang cotton industry chain on the spot; earthwork revealed that its Desert Botany Research Institute has signed a cooperation agreement with Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the cooperation between the two sides in the field of cotton industry chain and drought-tolerant plants has become the focus of this forum. 04. The 2nd China-Central Asia (Uzbekistan) Trade Fair (Tashkent): Uzbekistan's agriculture-related institutions made a high-profile statement (10-16, Tashkent) source: Xinhua News Agency from October 14th to 16th, the 2nd China-Central Asia (Uzbekistan) Trade Fair was held at the Tashkent International Exhibition Center. About 200 Chinese companies and 19 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities participated in the exhibition. During the exhibition, Uzbekistan's agricultural institutions expressed their willingness to cooperate in a high profile: the head of the Uzbekistan Agricultural Innovation Fund said that China's robots and new energy equipment are deeply empowering Uzbekistan's agriculture and are looking forward to cooperation in the whole industrial chain of modern agriculture. The director of the Agricultural Information Innovation Center of the Uzbek Farmers Association and the director of the Cooperation Department of the Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry also expressed their views on the docking of agricultural information and trade. 05. Gansu Province and the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan signed a standard cooperation agreement (10-13) source: Gansu Daily according to a summary of the province's standardization work disclosed by the "Gansu Daily", the Gansu Institute of Commercial Science and Technology signed a standards cooperation agreement with the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan. According to the agreement, Gansu will transfer China's national standards to Tajikistan in five aspects, including potato, wheat and cotton, and include the testing methods of 25 products in the testing method system applicable to Tajikistan's national standards. to explore a replicable "standard channel" for advantageous industries to participate in "Belt and Road Initiative". The cooperation takes the standard "soft connectivity" as the starting point, which helps to reduce the technical barriers of bilateral agricultural products and processed products trade, and improve the adaptation of Gansu characteristic agricultural equipment and technology in Central Asia. Uzbekistan experts look forward to deepening agricultural scientific research cooperation with Xinjiang (10-13, Urumqi) source: Tianshan Network after the press conference of Xinjiang scientific research results, the director of the Institute of Genetics and Plant Experimental Biology of the Uzbek Academy of Sciences publicly stated that he looked forward to deepening agricultural scientific research cooperation with Xinjiang. The statement continues the existing exchange basis between China and Ukraine in the fields of crop genetic improvement and plant resource utilization, and highlights the practical needs of Central Asian countries to improve their agricultural science and technology level by taking advantage of Xinjiang's location and scientific research advantages. 07. Tianshan white crab has been mass-produced and exported in Xinjiang, and has signed contracts with customers in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan (10-10, Alar) source: China News Network the second "Lake Fresh Xinjiang Raising White Jade Crab to Move West" fishing festival was held on October 10 in Alar City, the first division of the Corps. The 500 mu breeding base of the first phase of the project has been completed, and more than 2000 mu of the second phase is under construction, with a yield of 150-200kg per mu, realizing the large-scale mass production of Tianshan white jade crab in Xinjiang. The products are mainly sold to Central Asia and Central Europe. At present, it has signed contracts with customers such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkey. It is estimated that about 50% of the output will be exported to foreign countries, mainly to the Central Asian market. This mode of "raising fresh lakes in Xinjiang" has become a representative case of Xinjiang aquatic products docking with the central Asian consumer market with the help of its geographical advantages. Tianshan white crab officially realized large-scale mass production and export in Xinjiang 08. Henan Agricultural Investment "China-Kazakhstan Agricultural Science and Technology Demonstration Park" Wheat and Corn Harvests Period (10-13, North Kazakhstan) source: Henan Daily Newspaper Group-Dahe Finance Cube. The "China-Kazakhstan Agricultural Science and Technology Demonstration Park" jointly built by Henan Agricultural Investment and North Kazakhstan National University ushered in the harvest period of wheat and corn. The demonstration park is located in 1000 mu of black land in North Harbin, with planning and layout of water-saving irrigation, agricultural machinery and equipment, intelligent agricultural technology exhibition area, as well as wheat, corn and soybean introduction experimental area; the two sides signed a contract to build it in June 2026. At present, the harvest of crops marks the transformation of the park from the construction period to the output and demonstration period, and provides a physical platform for Henan agricultural technology, equipment and varieties to "go out" and serve Kazakhstan's food production. 09. Qingdao Lulin Dehydrated Vegetables to Kazakhstan to Build Standardized White Onion Planting and Processing Base (10-14) source: Farmers Daily · China Agricultural Network qingdao Lulin dehydrated vegetable enterprises went to Kazakhstan to build a standardized white onion planting and processing base, forming a full-chain output mode of "product + technology + standard + brand. Qingdao Agricultural and Rural Bureau has included supporting enterprises to build overseas planting and breeding bases and layout overseas warehouses into its annual key work, providing supporting policies and resources for enterprises to "go global. The project takes white onion as the starting point, and drives the two-way connection between Qingdao agricultural processing capacity and Central Asian raw material base by exporting standardized planting and processing capacity. 10. Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Kazakhstan Demonstration Field: Cotton, Corn, Oil Sunflower Yield Set Kazakhstan's National Record (10-16, Kazakhstan) source: Science and Technology Daily the Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences implemented the "Transfer of Water-saving, Stress-resistance and Efficiency-increasing Technology for Grain, Cotton and Oil Crops" project and the "China-Central Asia Agricultural Technology Sharing Center (Kazakhstan Sub-center)" in Kazakhstan, handing over brilliant report cards: the yield of cotton seeds and cotton in Lihua 1400 reached 7605kg/ha, a record in Kazakhstan, driving the income of local cotton farmers to increase by about 30%. Corn Dense Planting Drip Irrigation Yield 1274-1303kg per Mu, 33.7-38.6% higher than the local level; Oil sunflower yield 242kg per mu, up 20.62. The project has trained more than 1000 local agricultural technicians and farmers, highlighting the potential of Chinese agricultural technology in Central Asia to increase production and efficiency. 11. Gansu Minqin honeydew melon exported to Kazakhstan for the first time (10-13, Minqin) source: New Gansu Client after passing the inspection by Lanzhou Customs, 2 tons of Gansu Minqin honeydew melon were shipped to Kazakhstan. This is the first time that Minqin honeydew melon has been exported to Central Asian countries after entering the markets of Singapore and UAE. The transportation adopts the mode of "road cold chain + air freight", which takes about two days to ensure the quality of fresh fruits to the maximum extent. This single export marks that Gansu's characteristic fresh agricultural products have opened up the channel through customs quarantine to Central Asia, and has accumulated experience for Minqin honeydew melon to further develop the Central Asian market. 12. Shaanxi Shangluo walnut kernel was exported to Central Asia via Horgos Port. Hanzhong tea exported 353 tons (10-14) to five Central Asian countries in the first half of the year. Source: People's Network Shaanxi Channel shaanxi Shangluo 54 tons of walnut kernels left the country through Horgos Port and were sold to Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. At the same time, Hanzhong tea exports to Central Asia continued to rise-in the first half of 2026, Hanzhong tea exports to five Central Asian countries reached 353 tons with a value of 4.54 million yuan, up 34.4 per cent and 21.7 per cent respectively over the same period last year. One fruit, one leaf and two commodities went to Central Asia through the western land port, reflecting the steady momentum of Shaanxi's characteristic agricultural products to expand exports to Central Asia with the help of location and channel advantages. 13. Xinjiang Bohu County Pigment Pepper Exported to Central Asian Countries (10-14, Bohu) source: CCTV Network the planting area of pepper in Bohu County of Xinjiang is more than 70000 mu, including 63000 mu of pigment pepper, which is exported to Central Asian countries. The local widely used Beidou navigation transplanter, drone plant protection and other intelligent equipment in the planting link, improve standardization and operational efficiency. Bohu pigment pepper is becoming one of the export categories of characteristic agricultural products facing Central Asia, relying on Xinjiang's processing tomato and pepper industry foundation and opening the channel to the west. This issue is compiled from the WeChat account 「Xinjiang Agricultural University Central Asia Research Center」. Search for 新疆农业大学中亚研究中心 in WeChat to follow.
2026-10-18
Central Asia Agricultural Hotspot Tracker (Issue 11, 2026)Kazakhstan 1. Juice imports down nearly 23% Kazakhstan's juice output and consumption keep declining, while carbonated drinks remain more popular with consumers. According to Energoprom.kz, in the first half of 2026 per-capita consumption of carbonated beverages reached 5.25 litres — about 1.5 times the 3.41 litres of fruit juice. From January to August 2026, domestic enterprises produced 45.4 million litres of fruit and vegetable juice, down 9.4% year on year. Fruit juice output fell 8.3% to 43.3 million litres, while vegetable juice dropped 30.2% to 1.9 million litres. Among the main categories, only orange juice grew — up 17.4% to 21.6 million litres over the first eight months, close to half of total fruit juice output. Apple juice fell 23.8% to 10.4 million litres, mixed juice 19.2% to 6.7 million litres, and pineapple juice 8.7% to 1.5 million litres. From January to July, Kazakhstan imported 26,000 tonnes of fruit and vegetable juice, down 22.9% year on year; over the same period domestic output by weight fell 11.8% to 45,200 tonnes. As imports shrank, the domestic producers' share of the juice market rose from 60.3% to 63.5%. Domestic sales also slipped: 70,300 tonnes in the first seven months, down 15% from a year earlier. On the export side, juice shipments fell to 980.6 tonnes, about 40% of the year-earlier volume. Kyrgyzstan remained the largest export market at 664.9 tonnes, followed by Russia, Uzbekistan and Georgia. Russia stayed the top supplier, with 18,100 tonnes (nearly 70% of imports); other main suppliers were China, the Netherlands and Israel. In the first half of 2026, per-capita fruit juice consumption of 3.41 litres was below the 3.6 litres a year earlier — the second consecutive annual decline. Prices kept climbing: in September 2026 juice prices were up 9.7% year on year. Regionally, Mangistau posted the biggest increase at 25.3%, with Ulytau and Kyzylorda at 20.3% and 19.6%. Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-10-09 2. Fats-and-oils exports targeted at US$1.5 billion by 2028 Kazakhstan is steadily building the export potential of its fats-and-oils industry, prioritising deep processing of domestic raw materials and production of high-value-added finished goods. The plan is to lift fats-and-oils export revenue to US$1.5 billion by 2028 — a 60% increase over current levels — by expanding production capacity, increasing raw-material supply, developing transport and logistics infrastructure and further opening up foreign markets. Over the past five market seasons, sector export earnings grew fivefold, from US$247 million to US$1.232 billion. Last year the industry accounted for 27% of total exports of processed agricultural products, underscoring the growing role of downstream processing in Kazakhstan's agro-industrial complex. Refining capacity of the country's oil processors already exceeds 5.2 million tonnes a year, and with new investment projects capacity is set to rise further. In 2025 Kazakhstan became the world's sixth-largest sunflower-oil exporter and China's second-largest supplier of sunflower oil; in the 2024/25 season it also ranked among China's top five canola-oil suppliers. It is one of the top three suppliers of sunflower meal to the EU and Chinese markets and meets a sizeable share of Central Asian demand. Trade ties with neighbours are strengthening: Kazakhstan is now a leading supplier of vegetable oil to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan — its share rose from 13% in 2017 to 65% in 2024 in Uzbekistan and to over 90% in 2025; in Tajikistan the share went from 15% in 2017 to 74% in 2024 and over 90% in 2025. Fats-and-oils products are exported to more than 20 countries and territories, mainly China, Central Asian states, EU members and the Middle East. Kazakhstan's long-term goal is to join the world's top three sunflower-oil exporters and lift annual sector export earnings to US$2 billion. Expanding domestic raw-material supply is essential: since 2021 sunflower acreage has grown 2.3-fold, from 958,000 hectares to a record 2.2 million hectares in 2026, though processor demand still outstrips supply. Another effective lever is direct financing from processors to farmers — for spring fieldwork, seed, fertiliser and crop-protection inputs; in 2025 alone more than 43 billion tenge was channelled this way, strengthening the farm-to-processing-to-export chain. Positioned at the crossroads of trade routes linking China, Central Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Kazakhstan benefits geographically. The national oilseed processors' association is coordinating rail shipments of vegetable oil through the Dostyk–Alashankou crossing with Kazakhstan Temir Zholy; under this mechanism the fulfilment rate of China shipment plans rose from under 40% in 2023 to over 90%, and over the past three seasons exports of fats-and-oils products to China grew more than 3.7-fold. Developing the sector is a key lever for economic diversification and expanding non-resource exports. Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-10-12 3. Grain threshing reaches 23 million tonnes; exports up 13% At a government meeting on 13 October, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Azat Sultanov said crop farming had posted positive results in the first nine months. Grain output has reached 23 million tonnes to date. Despite a harsh growing season and a planned 1.8-million-hectare cut in wheat area, total grain production is still expected to exceed the long-term average. Oilseed harvesting is accelerating — 3.7 million tonnes threshed so far, 2.5 times the year-earlier figure — and the full-season oilseed harvest is expected to exceed the record 5 million tonnes. Vegetables have also done well: 3.1 million tonnes of vegetables, 2.9 million tonnes of potatoes and about 2.4 million tonnes of melons gathered. Total grain and legume area this year reached 15.6 million hectares, with 96% now harvested and an average yield of 15.2 centners per hectare. Leading grain regions posted average yields of 17 centners/ha in North Kazakhstan, 14 in Akmola and 14.2 in Kostanay. Grain quality is good: over 72.4% of wheat delivered to elevators rated as Class III. New-crop exports are off to a strong start — 1.1 million tonnes shipped by end-September, up 13% year on year — making it vital to keep intake facilities running, move grain promptly and use logistics capacity efficiently. Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-10-13 4. Wheatgrass juice to be exported to Russia and the UAE According to the Agriculture Ministry, production potential in Aktobe region is growing. Since 2016, Green Vitamin has produced 100% natural wheatgrass juice from young wheat shoots it cultivates itself, giving the company full control over raw-material quality and a fully optimised production cycle. It currently makes up to 3,000 packs a month and can raise that to 10,000. Its products are sold across all regions of Kazakhstan. Exports are crucial: Green Vitamin already supplies the Russian Federation and the United Arab Emirates (including Dubai), and is finalising a contract with Belarus — a move expected to widen the overseas reach and competitiveness of Kazakh-made products. Source: Kazinform (Казинформ) | Date: 2026-10-14 Kyrgyzstan 1. First national satellite in orbit to monitor crops and pastures Kyrgyzstan's first national satellite has reached orbit. Manas Manbetaliyev, head of the Agriculture Ministry's "Agrarnaya Mysl" (Agricultural Mind) agency, told Kabar that the satellite will use remote-sensing data to monitor agricultural land, crops and pastures regularly and objectively. The data will determine actual sown areas, track crop development and flag zones showing drought, water shortages or other stress; monitoring can deliver fresh readings of farmland conditions weekly and follow changes across large areas. Experts can then run field checks and adjust irrigation and other agronomic measures in time. The indicators are also planned for preliminary yield assessment, combining weather and crop-type data to analyse growth dynamics across the season. Satellite information is to be integrated with the "iDyikan" system and the digital land registry so the sector can compare declared land and sowing data against reality, spot discrepancies and improve accuracy. Manbetaliyev said the expected economic benefit comes first from more efficient land and water use; better data will help plan irrigation, forecast yields and allocate state support more rationally. Source: Kabar (Кабар) | Date: 2026-10-02 2. Autumn harvest nearing completion; grain up 714,000 tonnes vs 2025 Preliminary data from the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry show that in 2026 Kyrgyzstan harvested about 2.5 million tonnes of grain and 965,000 tonnes of potatoes — up 714,000 and 317,000 tonnes respectively from a year earlier — with the autumn campaign nearing completion. The Chui region leads in grain: wheat and barley harvesting is virtually done, grain-corn output exceeded 671,000 tonnes (nearly double last year), vegetables reached 891,000 tonnes and melons 240,000 tonnes; potatoes remain concentrated in Issyk-Kul. Sugar beet is about one-third harvested with an average yield of 420 centners/ha, and in the south cotton harvesting is more than twice as fast as last year, with over 16,000 tonnes delivered to collection points. The ministry said the larger harvest helps secure domestic food supply and provides raw material for processing. Source: Kabar (Кабар) | Date: 2026-10-14 3. Plan to allocate 800 million som to buy beans from farmers At a Jogorku Kenesh session, Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry Erlist Akunbekov, replying to a deputy's question on bean prices, said the authorities are considering allocating 800 million som to support purchases of beans from farmers, with a decision expected within 7–10 days. Under the mechanism under review, red beans would be bought at 100 som/kg and white beans at 130–135 som/kg, prices already agreed with the private sector. The minister noted the funds would cover only part of the expected harvest: Talas region alone produces about 70,000–80,000 tonnes a year, and 800 million som would buy roughly 8,000 tonnes — about 10% of the expected total. Akunbekov said bean cultivation is costly and yields are low, at about 15 centners/ha (1,500 kg); one of the ministry's tasks is to raise the efficiency of agricultural land, and lifting bean yields to 40–60 centners/ha would improve farmers' economics. Source: Kabar (Кабар) | Date: 2026-10-14 Uzbekistan 1. Mirziyoyev proposes food-cooperation programme for landlocked countries President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed a food-cooperation programme starting with Central Asia and bringing together landlocked countries and their transit partners. The proposal appeared in his address to participants of the International Cotton Day and Food Security in Developing Landlocked Countries conference, published on 7 October 2026. He also called on international financial institutions and private investors to join projects in food processing, refrigerated storage and transport. "We stand for full freedom of logistics and trade in food products and for simplifying the rules governing food supplies," the address said. The head of state set a goal of doubling food output by 2030 and tripling exports and added value; to that end, Uzbekistan will strengthen cooperation with international organisations and foreign countries. Mirziyoyev noted that climate change, water shortages, drought and logistics disruptions are pushing food prices up, citing FAO data that over 645 million people worldwide suffer from hunger, with experts warning the number could reach 1 billion by 2028 without action. He said International Cotton Day helps raise Uzbekistan's investment appeal and present it as a reliable partner; scientists, experts and entrepreneurs from more than 30 countries and many international organisations attended the forums. Source: UzA (УзА) | Date: 2026-10-07 2. Fergana grapes exported to South Korea for the first time Grapes from Uzbekistan's Fergana region are being exported to South Korea for the first time. Local company Quva-Agro Star plans to ship 300 tonnes in modern packaging. In preparation, South Korean specialists inspected the company's operations, grape pre-export handling and fumigation procedures, after which a supply plan was agreed. According to the Fergana region administration, the region exported 98,664 tonnes of grapes worth US$97.5 million in 2025, and 80,000 tonnes worth US$63 million in 2026. Besides South Korea, Fergana grapes go to European countries, Belarus, China, Russia, Iraq, Ukraine and other markets. Entering South Korea broadens the region's export map and creates more opportunities for local growers. Source: UzA (УзА) | Date: 2026-10-11 3. Cotton: 76% of crop harvested By 12 October, Uzbekistan had harvested 3.4 million tonnes of raw cotton — 76% of the season's contractual target of 4.5 million tonnes, the Agriculture Ministry reported. Machine harvesting accounted for 2.6 million tonnes and hand-picking 848,000 tonnes, about 75% mechanised. Of the hand-picked cotton, 174,000 tonnes came from field edges (cleared to let machines turn and operate) and 674,000 tonnes from small plots machines cannot enter. About 3,000 high-capacity cotton pickers are in use, and more than 1,000 modern pickers were leased to farms and clusters this year. On 12 October alone, machines harvested 147,000 tonnes, averaging about 50 tonnes per machine. Harvesting continues. Source: UzA (УзА) | Date: 2026-10-13 Tajikistan 1. 60,000-bird broiler farm commissioned in Khatlon On 4 October, President Emomali Rahmon remotely commissioned a broiler farm in Pushiyoni Miyona village, Khudoyor Rajabov rural community, Vose district, Khatlon region, as part of 21 facilities launched that day. Designed to raise up to 60,000 birds and produce chicken meat, the farm aims to increase meat output and supply the domestic market, and created 10 jobs. Poultry is an important part of Tajikistan's agriculture, with domestic producers supplying meat and other poultry products; Vose is an agricultural district of Khatlon where livestock and cropping form part of the local economy. Source: Presidency of the Republic of Tajikistan | Date: 2026-10-05 2. Sughd region: 39,700 tonnes of raw cotton, 33.4% of plan Data from Tajikistan's Agency of Statistics show that by 12 October Sughd region had collected over 39,700 tonnes of raw cotton, 33.4% of the planned delivery. Jabbor Rasulov district had delivered over 5,400 tonnes (47.8% of its 11,300-tonne plan) and Spitamen district about 5,700 tonnes (43.9% of its 13,000-tonne seasonal plan). Among rural communities, Panjakent's (Kanibadam) Patar community performed best. At an award ceremony for first-stage harvesting-competition winners, Sughd governor Rajab Ahmadjoda noted this year's difficult weather — a rainy spring and temperature swings delayed farmers' start — yet despite repeated reseeding farms still achieved good yields; the tougher task now is to finish before the cold sets in. He expressed confidence Sughd would deliver no less than 120,000 tonnes to meet industrial demand. Source: Sputnik Tajikistan (Спутник Таджикистан) | Date: 2026-10-12 3. Dushanbe agri-cooperation meeting on eco-produce exports On 12 October, Agriculture Minister Qurbon Hakimzoda met representatives of development partners. Reported by Khovar, the meeting discussed securing domestic market supply, expanding production capacity, increasing exports of eco-clean agricultural products to world markets, and applying international best practices in agriculture. Per the Agriculture Ministry, the two sides exchanged views on mutually beneficial cooperation, attracting investment, joint projects and adapting international experience. Participants noted that global agribusiness is strained by climate change, more frequent natural disasters, limited water and land, volatile world food markets, rising input costs and supply-chain disruptions — pressures Tajikistan cannot escape. Given its climate and water dependence, sustainable development, higher efficiency, modern methods and food security are especially important. Source: Khovar (Ховар) / Agriculture Ministry | Date: 2026-10-13 Turkmenistan 1. State Exchange: five cotton and yarn deals on 1 October Turkmenistan's State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange (SCRMET) reported new cotton and yarn trades, confirming textiles remain one of the country's most active export channels and a key source of hard-currency trade. In the 1 October session, five deals were concluded — cotton fibre sold to Turkish buyers, cretonne cotton fabric to Kyrgyz entrepreneurs, and cotton yarn on the domestic market — for a total of 11.2 million manat and US$6.7 million. Beyond the headline figures, cotton stays a core agricultural and industrial commodity, and every session that clears textile contracts turns crop output into export revenue and industrial activity. The buyer mix matters: Turkish demand for fibre shows continued regional appetite for textile input, Kyrgyz purchases of fabric show Turkmen textiles finding markets in neighbouring Central Asian economies, and domestic yarn sales show the internal textile chain is still being fed. Analysts note that as long as the exchange keeps clearing fibre, fabric and yarn, Turkmenistan retains a practical channel to convert domestic production into tradable income — though cotton markets remain exposed to weather, price swings and shifts in regional demand, and concentration risk persists. Source: SCRMET / TDH (TDH) | Date: 2026-10-01 2. Cabinet sums up nine months: GDP +6.3%, agriculture +4.1% On 2 October, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov chaired a digital Cabinet meeting summing up the first nine months. GDP growth was 6.3%. The budget revenue side was executed at 100.1% and expenditure at 97.2%. Versus a year earlier, output rose 9.9%, retail trade 10.5%, foreign trade 8.3% and utilised capital investment 3.5%. All sectors posted gains: transport and communications +10.4%, trade and services +8.4% each, construction +6.7%, agriculture +4.1%, industry +3%. The agro-industrial complex's production growth reached 124.2% and the investment-utilisation plan 144.2%. Cotton harvesting and winter-wheat sowing continue across the regions. The oil and gas plan was overfulfilled: oil extraction 109.1%, refining 106.8%, natural and associated gas 109.1%. The president instructed the government to keep steady GDP growth, step up work on the 2027 draft budget, accelerate seasonal farm work and develop transport infrastructure comprehensively. Source: TDH (TDH) | Date: 2026-10-02
2026-10-12
China–Central Asia Agricultural Cooperation Update (Issue 3, 2026)01. Xinjiang Korla Fragrant Pear Export to Central Asia: Uzbekistan Merchants Sign 2,000 Tons Purchase Agreement (10-05, 10-06) source: People's Network Xinjiang Channel the export path to Central Asia of Geimurati Cartier, head of Cartier Fresh-keeping Storehouse in Awati Township, Korla City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region: In December 2025, he went to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan with the Federation of Industry and Commerce of the Autonomous Region to investigate the fruit market and connect with distributors, and obtained export orders for more than 300 tons of fragrant pears that year. Go to Central Asia for promotion again in June 2026; In August; Four Uzbek dealers visited Korla on a special trip. Its cooperative customers have increased from dozens to more than 500, with the target sales volume exceeding 5,000 tons in 2026. The next step is to introduce Xinjiang red dates, walnuts, grapes and other characteristic agricultural products to the Central Asian market. Korla fragrant pear brand value of 17 billion yuan. 02. Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications and Kazakhstan National Agricultural Research University jointly established the "Silk Road Smart Agriculture Joint Laboratory" and unveiled (10-06) source: Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications News Network (International Cooperation and Exchange Department) xu Kun, president of Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, led a delegation to visit Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan from September 29 to October 5, 2026. At the National Agricultural Research University of Kazakhstan, the two parties signed a memorandum of inter-school cooperation and unveiled the "Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications-Kazakhstan National Agricultural Research University Silk Road Smart Agriculture Joint Laboratory", agreeing to jointly implement the digital transformation of education, joint training of talents, and cross-field Collaborative innovation, joint laboratory construction, and long-term cooperation mechanism construction "five major actions" to jointly build an international cooperation platform for agricultural digital intelligence in Central Asia. During their stay in Kazakhstan, the delegation also called on Chinese Ambassador to Kazakhstan Han Chunlin, met with Kazakh Minister of Science and higher Education Sayasat Nuerbek, and visited the National Academy of Sciences directly under the President of Kazakhstan (Dean and President of Kazakhstan National Agricultural Research University Akerbick Kurishbayev), and signed a memorandum with Kazakhstan Artificial Intelligence Research University to unveil the Silk Road Institute of artificial Intelligence "; during his stay in Uzbekistan, he met with Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan Yu Jun, visited Tashkent National Technical University and signed a memorandum of understanding, and visited Huawei Technologies to invest in Tashkent. President Xu Kun calls on Chinese Ambassador to Kazakhstan Han Chunlin president Xu Kun called on Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan Yu Jun 03. Ningxia's import and export to Central Asia increased by 81.7 from January to August, and vegetable seeds exported to 27 countries in Taijin seed industry (10-07) source: China Daily (cited by the Department of Commerce of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region) the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region's imports and exports from January to August were 17.72 billion yuan (US $2.64 billion), up 23.9 percent year-on-year; imports and exports to Central Asia increased 81.7 percent. Among them, Ningxia Taijin seed industry to overseas demonstration base to adapt to the international market demand, a number of Central Asian countries have been using its tomato, watermelon, melon, pepper, eggplant varieties. 04. Zhengzhou International Dry Port "Central Asian Agricultural Products Distribution Center" Kazakhstan Grain and Feed Train Steady to Fat (10-07) source: Henan Daily zhengzhou International Dry Port Central Asia Agricultural Products Distribution Center Kazakhstan grain and feed trains have arrived steadily to ensure the raw material demand of key agricultural and animal husbandry enterprises in Henan Province, such as Muyuan and Zhengda. Simultaneously operate ASEAN Cassava Starch Distribution Center. In September 2026, the China-Europe train and the commercial train in Zhengzhou International Dry Port Airport Area will run 202 trains in total, with the monthly volume exceeding 200 trains for the first time. Henan China-Europe trains reach more than 40 countries and more than 140 cities in Europe and Asia. In the east operation area of Zhengzhou international land port, the gantry crane is lifting the container onto the railway flat car. 05. A joint delegation of Jilin University and Northeast Agricultural University visited Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan and signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Saifulin Kazakhstan Agricultural Technology Research University (10-08, 10-11) source: College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Northeast Agricultural University professor Tang Aoqing of Jilin University and Professor Li Yang of the Food College of Northeast Agricultural University, together with professors Jiang Lianzhou and Qi Baokun of Northeast Agricultural University, formed a delegation to visit Almaty Technical University of Kazakhstan, Saifulin Kazakhstan Agricultural Technology Research University and Tashkent National Agricultural University of Uzbekistan to carry out academic exchanges and cooperation negotiations. The delegation signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Saifulin Kazakhstan Agricultural Technology Research University on cooperation in running schools, joint personnel training, exchange visits of teachers, cooperation in scientific research projects and international academic exchanges; reached a consensus with the two Kazakhstan universities on deep processing of grain and oil, research and development of functional products, high-value utilization of by-products, product quality and safety control, joint declaration of international scientific research projects, joint training of graduate students, etc; we reached a consensus with Tashkent National Agricultural University on the joint construction of disciplines, collaborative innovation of scientific research, joint research on soybean intensive processing, exchange of young scientific research talents, and two-way transformation of scientific research achievements. We agreed on online academic discussions, sharing of technical achievements and short-term research by students, and visited plant engineering, grain processing and packaging laboratories. 06. Chongqing plans to rely on the Shanghai Cooperation Economic and Trade Platform to promote the "going out" of agriculture, and plan the SCO Agricultural Green Development Industry Alliance for Central Asia and other Shanghai Cooperation regions (10-08) source: Chongqing Agricultural and Rural Committee gao Xingming, former member of the Agricultural and Rural work Committee of the Chongqing Municipal CPC Committee, pointed out that the SCO member states and Chongqing's agriculture are highly complementary: Central Asia and other countries in the SCO region have vast land and rich grain, oil and animal husbandry resources, but there is a shortage of improved varieties of fruits and vegetables, modern agricultural planting technology and agricultural products processing equipment; Chongqing has outstanding advantages in fruit and vegetable planting, deep processing of agricultural products, cold chain logistics, and planting of characteristic traditional Chinese medicine. Chongqing revitalized the city's more than 500 million mu of winter idle fields to grow high-end vegetables on a large scale, relying on the Chongqing-Xinjiang-Europe international channel to build a core supply base for winter fresh vegetables in cities along the route to fill the supply gap of winter vegetables along the Eurasian route. It is planned to launch the SCO Agricultural Green Development Industry Alliance, hold the Agricultural Green Sustainable Development Summit Forum, and release the "Chongqing Initiative" for agricultural green development ". 07. Xinjiang imported and exported 394.7 billion yuan (+10.7) in the first eight months, imported agricultural products +50.4, and the five Central Asian countries were the largest trading markets (10-08) source: Urumqi Customs (released by the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region People's Government Network "Department Dynamics") according to Urumqi Customs statistics, the total import and export value of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in the first eight months was 394.7 billion yuan (+10.7%). Exports 349.06 billion yuan (+9.5%), imports 45.64 billion yuan (+20.4%); Imports and exports 59.66 billion yuan (+68.1%) in August. In terms of trade markets, the five Central Asian countries, ASEAN, and Russia are the top three trade markets; imports and exports to countries that jointly build the "Belt and Road" increased by 12.8, accounting for 87.6 percent of Xinjiang. Among them, imports of agricultural products increased by 50.4. 08. Alashankou Port and Horgos Highway Port: Central Europe (Central Asia) Train and Bulk Grain Line Build China-Central Asia Agricultural Products Import and Export Channel (10-08, 10-10) source: China Belt and Road Network alashankou Port and Horgos Highway Port are two key channels for the import and export of agricultural products between China and Central Asian countries. There are more than 20 trains in Central Europe (Central Asia) that pass through the Alashankou port, reaching 21 countries such as Kazakhstan, and expanding the category of goods to more than 200; Xinjiang's 19 open ports operate efficiently, and more than 200 countries and regions Establish trade exchanges; in the past three years, the total foreign trade value of Xinjiang to the five Central Asian countries has maintained more than 270 billion yuan, accounting for more than half of the total foreign trade value; the Horgos Highway Port has become an important channel for the import and export of characteristic fruits from China and Central Asia (Guangxi grapefruit, Jiangxi oranges, Zhejiang peaches, Hubei oranges, and Shaanxi kiwifruit are transported to the five Central Asian countries; Kyrgyzstan melons and Uzbekistan cherries enter the Chinese market). China-Europe Banliers Travel in Urumqi Dabancheng Wetland qinghai Province and Kazakhstan National University of Agricultural Science and Technology signed a memorandum of cooperation (10-09) source: Qinghai Provincial People's Government Network at the "China Kazakhstan plateau ecological civilization exchange dialogue", Qinghai Provincial Department of ecological environment, Qinghai Provincial Forestry and grassland Bureau, and Qinghai wildlife rescue and breeding center signed a memorandum of cooperation with Kazakhstan National University of agricultural science and technology, Kazakhstan Institute of zoology and Almaty Zoo, focusing on plateau ecological talent training, biodiversity scientific research cooperation, rare species protection science exchange, Promote the normalization of transnational ecological monitoring and two-way exchange of talents. Kazakhstan National University of Agricultural Science and Technology is an important agriculture-related university in Central Asia. This move extends China-Kazakhstan local cooperation from cultural exchanges to agricultural science and technology personnel training and joint scientific research. 10. Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Reclamation Sciences and Kazakhstan "Agro Akwa Complex" signed a tripartite cooperation agreement (10-09, incident date 10-07) source: Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Reclamation official website xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi Xingyun Garden Flower Engineering Co., Ltd. and Kazakhstan's "Agro Akwa Complex" signed a tripartite strategic cooperation agreement to promote the landing of Chinese high-quality varieties, advanced technology and management and protection technology in Kazakhstan, and jointly build China-Kazakhstan agricultural, garden flower research demonstration base. 11. General Administration of Customs Announcement No. 145 of 2026: Plant Quarantine Requirements for Imported Fresh Watermelon from Uzbekistan (10-10) source: General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China according to the Protocol on Plant Quarantine Requirements for Uzbekistan Fresh Watermelons Exported to China by the General Administration of Customs of the Republic of the People's Republic of China and the Food Safety Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the import of Uzbekistan fresh watermelons that meet the requirements is allowed from now on. The allowed origin is the watermelon producing area of the Republic of Uzbekistan; The land and packaging plants exported to China must be reviewed by Uzbekistan and jointly registered and approved by China and Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan provides China with a registration list before the export season each year. After being reviewed and approved by China, it publishes and regularly updates 4 kinds of quarantine pests that China is concerned about on the website of the General Administration of Customs: Melon Melon Melon, Cucumber Black Star, Verticillium Wilt, Verticillium Wilt, Verticillium Wilt and Chrysticillium, Chrys. quarantine basis 12. Xinjiang Qitai Potato Exported to Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan (10-09) source: Tianshan Network potatoes in Xicaozi Village, Jibku Town, Qitai County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region have entered the peak harvest season, with 2,000 mu of potatoes in the town. Local potatoes are mainly exported to Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. In that year, a new potato cleaning and sorting workshop with a daily processing capacity of 40 tons was built, and a mode of agricultural-commercial connection was established in cooperation with East Tianshan Logistics Park in Qitai County. 13. Xinjiang's characteristic fruits and vegetables "go to sea": 22 tons of Kashgar colored peppers are transported to Kazakhstan via Horgos Port (10-11) source: Xinjiang Radio and Television taking 60 smart greenhouses of Aolitunguli Maimetitulson, head of Xinjiang Kashgar Deep-Kazakh Integrated Farmers' Professional Cooperative, as a cut, 22 tons of colored peppers have entered Kazakhstan through Horgos Port in 2026. Hard data: from January to August 2026, the two major railway ports of Alashan Pass and Horgos will pass through 12,473 trains in China and Europe (Asia), up 5% year on year, with 25.1 million tons of goods delivered, up 8.2 percent year on year. From January to August, Xinjiang's characteristic fruits exported 186000 tons and 2.49 billion yuan. This issue is compiled from the WeChat account 「Xinjiang Agricultural University Central Asia Research Center」. Search for 新疆农业大学中亚研究中心 in WeChat to follow.
2026-10-05
China–Central Asia Agricultural Cooperation Update (Issue 2, 2026)01. China-Kazakhstan Smart Customs Construction and Cooperation Exchange Meeting (09-23, Horgos) source: the People's Republic of China Urumqi Customs on September 23, 2026, the China-Kazakhstan Smart Customs Construction and Cooperation Exchange Conference was held at the China-Kazakhstan Horgos International Border Cooperation Center. This is the first time that China-Kazakhstan Customs has conducted a special exchange on smart customs construction. The head of the Chinese side is Yao Jian, deputy director of Urumqi Customs, and the head of the Kazakh side is Olazov Gabit, Director of the Supervision Department of the State Revenue Committee of the Ministry of Finance of Kazakhstan. Wang Ning, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Kazakhstan, attended. The two sides exchanged views on topics such as the construction of China's smart customs and non-intrusive inspection data exchange, and held consultations on the "China-Kazakhstan Alashankou-Dostek Highway Port Scanning Image Exchange Mechanism" to facilitate cross-border customs clearance of China-Kazakhstan agricultural products and other goods. 02. Announcement of the General Administration of Customs No. 143 of 2026: Allow Tajikistan's Fresh Fruit (Plum, Apricot) to Be Exmitted to China (09-28) source: General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China on September 28, 2026, the General Administration of Customs issued Announcement No. 143 of 2026, allowing the import of fresh fruit from Tajikistan that meets relevant requirements. This is a sign that the newly signed bilateral plant quarantine protocol between China and Tajikistan has entered the implementation stage. Allowed to enter the goods for plum (Plum) and apricot (Apricot) two types of fresh stone fruit, allowed to produce in Tajikistan stone fruit production areas. Orchards and packaging plants exported to China must be audited by Tajikistan and approved for registration by China. Orchards must establish quality management and traceability system, implement good agricultural practice (GAP) and integrated pest management (IPM), and carry out orchard monitoring throughout the year according to ISPM 6 requirements. There are 7 kinds of quarantine pests that China is concerned about: codling moth, almond bee, plum leaf bee, grape-winged small curly moth, Huo's long shield scale, peach big black aphid, and tulun brown ball scale. 03. The third meeting of the coordination mechanism for the construction of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization agricultural technology exchange and training demonstration base (09-29, Beijing) source: Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs on September 29, 2026, the third meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Agricultural Technology Exchange and Training Demonstration Base Construction Coordination Mechanism was held in Beijing. Zhang Zhili, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and Wu Wengang, Vice Governor of Shaanxi Province and Director of the Management Committee of Yangling Demonstration Zone Attend the meeting and speak. The meeting pointed out that since the second meeting of the coordination mechanism, the strategic support capacity of the base has been steadily enhanced, the cooperation of technical personnel has been continuously deepened, the quality and efficiency of industrial services have been continuously improved, and the influence of international brands has been further expanded, which has made positive contributions to promoting agricultural cooperation among SCO member states. The meeting requested that during the "Tenth Five-Year Plan" period, important activities such as the SCO Agricultural Expo should be organized pragmatically, continuously improve the efficiency of the scientific and technological cooperation platform in technology promotion and application, improve the multi-level and normalized talent training system, and promote more agricultural economic and trade cooperation. Intent to land. Relevant responsible comrades of member units of the coordination mechanism such as the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended the meeting. 04. Chengdu "Rongpin Going to Sea" to Tashkent and Almaty Economic and Trade Cooperation and Exchange Conference (10-01, Chengdu) source: Sichuan News Network on October 1, 2026, Chengdu issued a list of "Rong products going to sea" product opportunities for Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Among them, there are 76 types of agricultural products in 6 categories, including Pujiang sparrow tongue, Pixian Douban, fermented wine, green food and geographical indication fruits. In addition, 20 enterprises have service trade products, and enterprises "find partners face to face" with local distributors, distributors and suppliers ". Background data show that the export of "Rong products" will exceed US $10 billion in 2025; the trade volume between Chengdu and Kazakhstan will exceed US $0.25 billion in 2025, an increase of more than 100 percent over the same period last year. Kazakhstan's high-quality grain, oil and animal husbandry products will enter the Chinese market through the Central Asian train. 05. The Senate of Uzbekistan ratifies the Central Asia-China Treaty on Permanent Good-Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation (10-03, Tashkent). Source: State News Agency of Uzbekistan on October 3, 2026, the 20th plenary session of the Senate of the Supreme Assembly of Uzbekistan passed the law ratifying the Treaty on Permanent Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People's Republic of China. The treaty was signed in Astana on June 17, 2025. It is the first multilateral international treaty signed under the framework of "Central Asia-China". It establishes a legal basis for long-term cooperation. Its implementation will promote the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, The development of transportation corridors and the modernization of logistics facilities, as well as the "Electronic Silk Road" trade platform and other projects. 06. Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Deepens Agricultural Science and Technology Cooperation with Central Asia (09-28, Beijing, China) source: Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (Bureau of International Cooperation) sun Tan, vice president of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, led a delegation to visit Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan from September 20 to 24, 2026, to deepen the construction of cooperation mechanisms and platforms with Central Asian countries, and promote cooperation in key areas such as cotton and animal disease prevention and control. In terms of Uzbekistan's itinerary, he attended the opening ceremony of the second China-Central Asia International Symposium on Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation and Cooperation and delivered a speech, and the members of the delegation made academic exchange reports; had a discussion with the heads of Tashkent National Agricultural University and Uzbekistan Cotton Institute; on-the-spot investigation China and Uzbekistan create high-yield cotton demonstration fields to promote cooperation in the entire cotton industry chain; expand cooperation in the fields of soil, fruits and vegetables, plant protection, animal husbandry, animal husbandry, animal husbandry, animal husbandry and veterinary and veterinary. In terms of Kazakhstan's itinerary, it visited the "the belt and road initiative" joint laboratory of agricultural science between China and Kazakhstan (to be established) and reached an agreement with Saifulin Agricultural Technology Research University to deepen all-round cooperation relying on the joint laboratory. Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Western Center and Saifulin Agricultural Technology Research University signed a tripartite cooperation framework agreement. Reached cooperation intention with Kazakhstan related enterprises on research and development and promotion of major animal disease vaccines. 07. Kashgar Shufu County Jiannan Agricultural and Sideline Products Wholesale Market Expands Exports of Fruits and Vegetables to Central Asia (09-30, Kashgar) source: Kashgar Financial Media Center the southern agricultural and sideline products wholesale market in Shufu County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang is a first-class agricultural market with a leading scale in the southern Xinjiang area and an annual turnover exceeding 10 billion yuan. Potatoes from Shandong, leafy vegetables from Yunnan and colored peppers and chamaku produced in local greenhouses meet here, and they are sent to markets in southern Xinjiang and even Central Asia via cold chain trucks. Since its operation in 2021, the market has built a strong direct mining channel covering 28 advantageous agricultural production areas in China, with an average daily purchase volume of about 2000 tons. Relying on Kashgar's location advantage of "five ports connecting eight countries and all the way connecting Europe and Asia", Shufu County has taken the export of agricultural products as a key move for industrial upgrading: the Kainan Agricultural Batch Market has invested and operated 30000 square meters of overseas warehouses in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and set up business organizations in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to build an integrated cross-border supply chain of "origin pretreatment-efficient customs clearance-overseas storage-terminal distribution. The timeliness and quality of this channel have been recognized by overseas markets-at 17:00 on July 23, a batch of 13 tons of Xinjiang local vegetables arrived at the Aksai vegetable and fruit wholesale market in Bishkek within 48 hours. Kashgar Infinite Space International Trade Co., Ltd. exported 46925 tons of vegetables to Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan and other countries in the first half of this year alone. In the next step, Shufu County will deepen the docking of production and marketing, enhance the level of standardization and branding, strengthen the cross-border supply chain, and build Shufu County into a "big vegetable garden" leading to Central Asia ". 08. The delegation of Shaanxi Agriculture and Forestry Vocational and Technical University visited Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan and signed 4 agricultural cooperation agreements (09-30) source: Party Committee Propaganda Department of Shaanxi Agriculture and Forestry Vocational and Technical University from September 21 to 25, 2026, at the invitation of Saifulin University of Agricultural Science and Technology in Kazakhstan and Tashkent National Agricultural University in Uzbekistan, Han Mingjun, Secretary of the Party Committee of Shaanxi Agriculture and Forestry Vocational and Technical University, led a delegation to the two countries for educational exchange visits. During their stay in Kazakhstan, the delegation signed an international cooperation agreement with Saifulin University of Agricultural Science and Technology on joint personnel training, scientific research cooperation, and exchange visits between teachers and students; on-the-spot investigation of the Kazakhstan Park of Xi'an Aiju Grain and Oil Industry Group, signed the "School-Enterprise Cooperation" Vocational Education to the Sea "Cooperation Agreement", agreed to jointly build a modern agricultural experimental demonstration base and a technology research and development center to help ensure national food security; and reached a cooperation intention with Kazakhstan Agricultural Technology Management Company on agricultural machinery technology training and agricultural high-tech exhibition. During their stay in Uzbekistan, the delegation visited Gulistan National University and signed a professional and technical training agreement, called on the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, signed a technical service cooperation agreement with the Lola Murotova Institute of Agricultural Technology, and unveiled the "China-Uzbekistan Modern Horticulture Qinling Workshop" in the SCO Agricultural Base China-Uzbekistan Modern Agricultural Science and Technology Demonstration Park. In addition, he also visited Tashkent National Agricultural University and Samarkhan Agricultural Seed Company, around crop breeding, agricultural machinery training and industrial technology empowerment docking cooperation. This visit signed a total of 4 cooperation agreements, landing "one square, one base, two centers" cooperation carrier. 09. Uzbekistan Agricultural Delegation Visits China to Learn Breeding and Selection Techniques (10-02) source: State News Agency of Uzbekistan according to a report by the Uzbek State News Agency on October 2, 2026, a delegation from the agricultural field led by the deputy director of the Uzbekistan Breeding Development Center is inspecting China to learn from China's advanced agricultural experience. The delegation visited the breeding field of Anhui Luyi Company (Anhui Luyi), which specializes in breeding, to learn about its progress in breeding and selection, crop planting technology and modern agronomic technology, and to carry out field practice exchanges with Chinese experts to discuss the possibility of developing cooperation in the field of breeding and selection and introducing advanced technology into Uzbekistan. According to the report, the cooperation between Ukraine and China in the field of seeds has been upgraded to a strategic stage in recent years (especially 2025-2026), covering large-scale investment and scientific research projects. The goal is to introduce China's advanced technology to the Ukrainian agricultural sector and cultivate high-yield and climate-resistant crop varieties. 10. The medium-term bank of characteristic crop germplasm resources in Central Asia, Xinjiang was completed and put into operation (10-04, Urumqi) source: China Agricultural and Rural Information Network (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs) according to the Xinjiang Daily, a medium-term bank of characteristic crop germplasm resources in Central Asia in Xinjiang has been built and put into use. The total design capacity of the library is 400000 copies. The first phase has a preservation capacity of 250000 copies and 150000 copies of expansion space are reserved. The resources cover wheat, corn, cotton, melon and other characteristic crops in Central Asia, which can meet the preservation needs of germplasm resources in Central Asia in the next 50 years. The germplasm resource bank is an agricultural scientific research infrastructure, which will provide a material basis for the selection and breeding of breakthrough varieties that adapt to drought, salinity, high temperature and other conditions, and serve the long-term scientific and technological cooperation between China and Central Asian countries in the field of crop breeding. 11. Shaanxi "the belt and road initiative" Joint Laboratory and Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences Deepen Agricultural Science and Technology Cooperation (10-04) source: Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University According to a report by the News Network of Northwest A & F University on October 4, 2026, at the invitation of the Joint Laboratory of Biological Resources and Green Smart Agriculture in Arid Areas of Shaanxi Province and the School of Life Sciences of Northwest A & F University, the Institute of Genetics and Plant Experimental Biology of the Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences Professor Bakhtia Rasulov and other SCO national scholars visited and reached a consensus on joint laboratory construction, joint scientific research projects, and joint postgraduate training. Prof. Rasulov was hired as Foreign Deputy Chairman of the International Academic Committee of the Joint Laboratory (Uzbekistan). The teachers and students present enthusiastically asked questions about the mode of cooperation in agricultural scientific research between China and Ukraine. The experts also visited the Shaanxi Provincial Science and Technology Resources Coordination Center and the Institute of Microbiology, and visited Baoji Haisheng Modern Agriculture Co., Ltd. and the Shaanxi Aerospace Breeding Engineering Technology Research Center. 12. The Shanghai Cooperation Agricultural Base organized Shaanxi enterprises to visit Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan (10-13 to 10-19) source: Shanghai Cooperation Organization Agricultural Technology Exchange Training Demonstration Base on October 2, 2026, the SCO Agricultural Base Economic, Trade and Investment Promotion Center announced that it would organize enterprises in Shaanxi Province to go to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan from October 13 to 19 to carry out "comprehensive exhibition + field inspection. The first stop went to Tashkent to attend the second China-Central Asia (Uzbekistan) Trade Fair held from October 14 to 16. The fair was hosted by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade and consisted of five major sections: intelligent manufacturing, green energy and agricultural cooperation. The exhibits covered complete sets of equipment, agricultural materials and agricultural products, etc. The second stop went to Calabarta City, Chuhe Prefecture, Kyrgyzstan, to participate in the Yangling Agricultural High Conference and 2026 Agricultural Fair Kyrgyzstan Field Exhibition held in the Kyrgyzstan Apple Demonstration Park. Zhongji Apple Demonstration Garden is JI's first standardized low-rootstock dense apple planting demonstration garden, with the first fruit hanging in September 2026. The exhibition site will carry out planting technology display, agricultural technical personnel training teaching, and around the fruit industry seedlings, agricultural machinery and agricultural materials, characteristic agricultural products to carry out supply and demand docking. This issue is compiled from the WeChat account 「Xinjiang Agricultural University Central Asia Research Center」. Search for 新疆农业大学中亚研究中心 in WeChat to follow.
2026-09-29
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.
2026-09-24
China–Central Asia Agricultural Cooperation Update (Issue 1, 2026)01. The 2nd China-Central Asia International Symposium on Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation and Cooperation (09-20 to 09-23, Tashkent) source: Tianshan Network-Xinjiang Daily from September 20 to 23, 2026, the second China-Central Asia International Symposium on Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation and Cooperation was held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, with the theme of "Science and Technology Empowerment and Green Synergy". At the opening ceremony, a number of agricultural science and technology cooperation agreements were signed, the China-Ukraine cotton science and technology demonstration base was unveiled, and the world's first large-scale language model of cotton knowledge "cotton core 1.0" was released ". The conference will set up four thematic sub-venues, focusing on the collaborative innovation and high-quality development of the whole cotton industry chain, the intelligent cultivation of characteristic fruits, vegetables and melons and the upgrading of the industry chain, the intelligent upgrading and high-quality development of modern animal husbandry, and the resilience and sustainable development of the agricultural ecosystem, the topics of cotton phenotypic monitoring, climate resilience cotton molecular breeding, salt tolerance mechanism of saline-alkali cotton, drip irrigation and fertilization optimization, biodegradable plastic film, melon biological breeding, feed base construction, livestock and poultry breeding wastewater treatment were exchanged. More than 200 representatives from universities, scientific research institutions and international organizations from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and other countries attended the meeting to build a normalized exchange platform for China-Central Asia agricultural science and technology. 02. The Second China-Central Asia Meteorological Cooperation Forum (09-22 Urumqi opening) source: Tianshan Network-Xinjiang Daily on September 22, 2026, the second China-Central Asia Meteorological Cooperation Forum with the theme of "Practicing National Early Warning and Guarding Regional Development Security" opened in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It was organized by the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Meteorological Bureau and China Meteorological Administration. Co-sponsored by the Cadre Training Institute. Chen Zhenlin, Director of the China Meteorological Administration, Danala Alin Bayeva, Director of the National Hydrological Meteorological Administration of Kazakhstan, and Irizaev Nulali, Deputy Secretary-General of the China-Central Asia Mechanism, attended and delivered speeches. The World Meteorological Organization Asia and Ben Churchill, Director of the Southwest Pacific Regional Office, delivered a video speech. At the opening ceremony, it was announced that the "Memorandum of Understanding on Meteorological Science and Technology Cooperation between the China Meteorological Administration and the Hydrometeorological Bureau of the Environmental Protection Committee of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan" was signed, and the "Implementation Action Plan for the Meteorological Intelligent Early Warning Program" Mazu "for Central Asian Countries (2026-2027)", and the customized version of "Mazu" Nepal was delivered on site. The forum focused on the impact of regional climate change, the implementation of the "Meteorological Disaster Prevention and Mitigation and Climate Change Urumqi Initiative" and other topics. Officials from the meteorological and hydrological departments of five Central Asian countries including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, and 2026 "One Belt One Road" meteorological visiting scholars attended the meeting to provide support for regional meteorological disaster prevention and mitigation cooperation including agriculture in arid areas. 03. High-Level Meeting on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor (09-22 Beijing) source: China Traffic News on September 22, 2026, the high-level meeting of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor was held in Beijing to carry out high-level dialogue and government-enterprise exchanges around the theme of "promoting the expansion and efficiency of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor". More than 200 people attended the meeting, including representatives of transportation authorities, embassies and consulates, relevant international organizations and enterprises from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and other countries along the Caspian. The meeting pointed out that in the first seven months of this year, the volume of China-Europe trains across the Caspian Sea and the direct freight volume of China-Europe highways increased by more than 60% and 70% respectively compared with the same period last year, effectively driving the agglomeration of industries along the route and the improvement of people's livelihood. The meeting stressed that the current corridor still has shortcomings in railways, highways, ports and customs clearance facilitation, and there is an urgent need to improve the energy efficiency of the corridor and keep it smooth. In the name of the transportation authorities of the participating countries, the meeting jointly issued the "Initiative to Promote the Expansion and Efficiency of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor", proposing to deepen policy coordination, strengthen the coordination of policies and regulatory measures in the fields of convenient transportation, cross-border connectivity, port access, etc. Promote the compatibility of standards; strengthen the connectivity of facilities, promote the construction, transformation and upgrade of infrastructure along the route; improve transport efficiency, develop multimodal transport, reduce the whole logistics cost, optimize the transportation environment, improve the efficiency of customs clearance, and promote digitalization. The meeting also released the two results of the "Silk Road Station" Construction and Operation Service Guide and the "China-Europe Trans-Caspian Road Transport Guide". Li Yang, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Transport of China, and the heads of the transportation authorities of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan The intergovernmental international road transport cooperation documents were jointly displayed. 04. China-Kyrgyzstan Port and Inspection and Quarantine Cooperation Document (09-22) source: General Administration of Customs on the afternoon of September 22, 2026, Sun Meijun, Director of the General Administration of Customs, met with visiting Kyrgyz Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and processing Industry Akunbekov and his party. In order to fully implement the important consensus of the meeting between the heads of state of China and Kyrgyzstan, the two sides conducted friendly exchanges and reached agreement on issues such as launching the mechanism of the China-Kyrgyzstan Port Management Cooperation Committee, deepening practical cooperation in smart customs and inspection and quarantine technology, and promoting smooth trade, convenience and safety. Sign cooperation documents. The above-mentioned meetings provided mechanism and document support for promoting cooperation in the field of customs clearance and agricultural product inspection and quarantine at the China-Kyrgyzstan port, and were conducive to expanding bilateral trade including agricultural products. 05. Liaoning-Central Asia Economic and Trade Cooperation Matchmaking Activities (09-24 Shenyang) source: People's Government of Liaoning Province on September 24, 2026, the Liaoning-Central Asia economic and trade cooperation docking event was held in Shenyang. Representatives of politicians, business associations and enterprises from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and other countries and representatives of high-quality enterprises in Liaoning attended the meeting. The activities focus on equipment manufacturing, digital medical care, humanities education, cross-border trade and other fields, focusing on industrial investment and product production landing, cross-border logistics infrastructure and dry port project construction, agricultural planting and agricultural products intensive processing joint investment and other directions to carry out precise docking, In-depth negotiations, the interaction between Almaty Prefecture of Kazakhstan and Liaoning Province is particularly close, and the willingness to cooperate is particularly strong. The event set up a normalized and pragmatic economic and trade exchange and industrial docking platform between Liaoning and Central Asian countries, unblocked the channels of economic and trade exchanges between the two sides, and laid a solid foundation for the industrial complementarity and landing of agricultural planting, intensive processing of agricultural products and other projects. 06. International Symposium on Regional Cooperation in Transboundary Agricultural Pest Management and the Almaty Declaration (09-24) source: Institute of Space Information Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences on September 10, 2026, the International Symposium on Regional Cooperation in Cross-border Agricultural Pest Management was held in Almaty, Kazakhstan. It was jointly organized by the Kazakhstan Institute of Plant Protection and Quarantine and the Institute of Space Information Innovation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Representatives from relevant institutions of China and Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan attended the meeting. At the meeting, representatives of all parties signed the "Almaty Declaration" to form a consensus on cooperation in cross-border pest monitoring, early warning and collaborative prevention and control. Academician Zhang Bing, vice president of the Air and Space Academy, said that Central Asia and its surrounding areas are facing the common challenge of cross-border spread of diseases and insect pests. All parties should strengthen information sharing and coordinated prevention and control. The Air and Space Academy is willing to give full play to its technological advantages in earth observation, earth big data and artificial intelligence, strengthen joint research on the occurrence mechanism of diseases and insect pests and migration and diffusion, develop regional risk assessment and early warning models, and promote monitoring data sharing and training. Participants also exchanged views on phytosanitary risks, remote sensing monitoring and biological control, and discussed joint projects and talent exchanges. The Alma-Ata Declaration proposes to integrate technologies such as ground monitoring and remote sensing, carry out joint monitoring and early warning of cross-border pests, explore the establishment of regional expert networks and information platforms, and strengthen cooperation in quarantine diagnosis, coordination of technical standards and mutual recognition of test results. 07. Tajikistan and Xinjiang Consult to Expand Export List to China (09-24, 09-25) source: Tajikistan State News Agency on September 24, 2026, a Tajik delegation led by Ruhshona Nasridzoda, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Tajikistan, held talks with the heads of relevant agencies of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in Urumqi to discuss the expansion of China and Tajikistan. Economic and trade ties between Tajikistan and Xinjiang. According to the press center of the Ministry of economic development and trade of Tajikistan, the talks paid special attention to trade diversification, expanding the list of Tajikistan's export products to China, strengthening cooperation in the field of sanitary and phytosanitary requirements, product standardization and certification, and eliminating the factors restricting the further development of bilateral trade. The two sides also expressed their willingness to further develop transportation and logistics infrastructure, build and renovate transportation and logistics centers, improve freight efficiency, strengthen transportation interconnection, and attach importance to expanding investment cooperation and attracting foreign direct investment, including the implementation of "green" economy, renewable energy and other fields. After the meeting, the two sides determined the priority direction of the next cooperation and agreed on the agenda for the next meeting of the Tajikistan-Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Economic and Trade Cooperation Sub-Committee. First export of Kyrgyzstan honey to China (09-21, 09-24) source: Kyrgyzstan's Kabar News Agency according to reports, China has become the first export market for the "Shenzhen Silk Road" company in Chuhe Prefecture, Kyrgyzstan. The company exported about 200 kilograms of honey to China for the first time, marking the starting point for the further development of the company's export business. Company representatives said that with the increase in demand, the company has increased production, and has now realized the delivery of complete vehicle skins. In order to expand production, the company participated in a grant project, and the funds obtained were used for equipment upgrading and automation of filling, packaging and labeling processes. At present, the company plans to further increase production and open up new export markets. Kyrgyzstan's domestic honey production enterprises are expanding production, improving product quality and promoting Kyrgyzstan's honey to enter overseas markets. The producers of Kyrgyzstan's honey company said that the company has been engaged in beekeeping since 2016. With the support of the United Nations Development Programme, the company has obtained financial and expert assistance, purchased modern equipment, obtained the necessary certification, and participated in five special training sessions for its employees. The enterprise plans to further expand production and increase sales, and promote Kyrgyzstan honey as a national product in the international market. 09. Preparations for the 33rd Yangling Agricultural High-tech Conference and the 2026 Shanghai Agricultural Fair (09-23, 09-24) source: Xinhua on September 23, the press conference of the 33rd China Yangling Agricultural High-tech Achievements Expo and the 2026 SCO Agricultural Expo was held in Beijing. This year's Agricultural High-tech Conference will be held in Yangling Demonstration Zone, Shaanxi Province from October 25th to 29th. With the theme of "New Quality Productivity · New Future of Agriculture", more than 2000 companies from more than 50 countries and regions have signed up for the exhibition. Build a "four-in-one" pattern of indoor exhibition, field exhibition, cloud exhibition, and overseas exhibition. The field exhibition layout has more than 30 centralized exhibition points and demonstration promotion points, conference activities organized 6 key activities and 22 supporting activities. The 2026 Shanghai Agricultural Expo, held at the same time, has the theme of "deepening practical cooperation and drawing a blueprint for development". Since its establishment in 2022, it has been held four times in a row, focusing on mutually beneficial cooperation between food security and agriculture. All SCO member states have continued to participate in the exhibition. For the first time this year, the Shanghai Agricultural Expo Hall has been set up independently, the indoor exhibition area has been expanded to 15000 square meters, and 10 characteristic field exhibition areas of the whole industrial chain have been upgraded, nine dignitaries at or above the vice-ministerial level and 97 officials, experts and scholars from various countries have been identified to attend the meeting, and nine activities, including the Shanghai Cooperation Roundtable, will be held to hold a special discussion on "Agricultural Water-saving Cooperation in Arid areas. 10. Shanghai Agricultural Expo overseas exhibition and Kyrgyzstan field exhibition (09-23, 09-24) source: Shanghe Agricultural Base as one of the overseas tour exhibitions of the 2026 Shanghai Agricultural Expo, the Kyrgyzstan Field Exhibition of the Shanghai Agricultural Expo will be held from October 16 to 17 in Kyrgyzstan's China-Kyrgyzstan Apple Demonstration Garden. Four major sections will be set up: apple dwarfing and dense planting technology display, commodity fruit quality promotion, plant protection technology training, and promotion of forest and fruit agricultural machinery and tools to show Kyrgyzstan fruit farmers and enterprises advanced technologies such as Chinese apple varieties, dwarfing and dense planting, intelligent water-saving irrigation, etc, at the same time, agricultural machinery products such as agricultural unmanned aerial vehicles, water-saving irrigation and other agricultural materials and soil improvement technologies have been promoted. At present, 31 representatives of Kyrgyz fruit farmers and enterprises and 7 Chinese and Kyrgyz enterprises have confirmed their participation in the meeting, promoting China's advanced apple planting technology and improved varieties to land locally and helping Kyrgyzstan's apple industry to improve quality and efficiency. Previously, this year's Shanghai Cooperation Agricultural Expo has held three overseas exhibitions in Almaty, Kazakhstan, Kazan, Russia, and Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Among them, Tashkent unveiled the Tashkent International Agricultural Exchange "Meeting Room" of the China Agricultural International Exchange Association. Set up a normalized docking platform for China-Uzbekistan agriculture; overseas touring exhibitions also drove nearly 80 domestic agricultural enterprises to go abroad, relying on the SCO agricultural technology exchange and training demonstration base, it has received more than 800 dignitaries and agricultural experts from various countries. 11. General Administration of Customs prohibits the import of animals and their products at a glance (09-24 update) source: General Administration of Customs on September 24, 2026, the General Administration of Customs updated and issued the List of Animals and Their Products Prohibited from Animal Epidemic Countries/Regions. Among them, Kazakhstan forbids the entry of cloven-hoofed animals and their related products due to foot-and-mouth disease (regionalization), except for the entry of cloven-hoofed animals and their related products in Almaty, Jetsu, East Kazakhstan, Abai, Gumbur, Turkestan, Kizilorda, Almaty and Chimkent cities that meet the requirements of China's laws and regulations; meanwhile, sheep and goats forbid the entry of foot-mouth and goat; tajikistan prohibits the entry of cloven-hoofed animals and related products due to foot-and-mouth disease; Turkmenistan prohibits the entry of cloven-hoofed animals and related products due to foot-and-mouth disease. 12. China-Central Asia Cooperation Center for Desertification Control and Jujumbao, Water-saving Technology (09-24) source: CCTV Network the China-Central Asia Cooperation Center for Desertification Prevention and Control (Ningxia) promotes the external training and export of giant fungus grass and water-saving technology, of which efficient and intelligent constant temperature water-saving technology has been applied in 9 Arab countries; Central Asian countries pay attention to the role of giant fungus grass in sand prevention and control and helping farmers increase income. Focusing on desertification prevention, water-saving agriculture and green technology training, China and Central Asian countries use this cooperation center as a platform to continue to promote cooperation. Giant fungus grass has both ecological restoration benefits and the value of helping farmers to increase income, and it is in line with the prevention and control of desertification in Central Asian countries. In line with the needs of sustainable agricultural development, ecological governance has thus become an important part of China-Central Asia agricultural cooperation. This issue is compiled from the WeChat account 「Xinjiang Agricultural University Central Asia Research Center」. Search for 新疆农业大学中亚研究中心 in WeChat to follow.
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