Over One Billion Seeds Imported Annually to EAEU from Third Countries
Import of Seeds Exceeds $1 Billion Annually in Eurasian Economic Union
Bishkek, June 16, 2023 – According to Andrey Drobyshevsky, the head of the Agricultural Markets Development Department of the Eurasian Economic Commission, the import of seeds from third countries to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has surpassed $1 billion annually in recent years. Drobyshevsky made this announcement during a round table discussion.
The crops that are most dependent on imports in terms of seeds are sunflower, corn, and sugar beets. The import of fruit tree saplings and vegetable crop seeds accounts for approximately $200 million.
Drobyshevsky emphasized the need for the EAEU to develop its own selection of seeds in order to reduce dependency on imports and boost exports. Currently, the Union’s exports and mutual trade in terms of seeds are significantly lower than its imports. However, the Union has been successful in exporting wheat seeds and seed potatoes.
The agricultural sector plays a crucial role in the economies of the EAEU member countries, and efforts to promote self-sufficiency in seed production will contribute to food security and economic growth in the region.
It is expected that further discussions and initiatives will take place within the EAEU to address the issue of seed import dependency and strengthen domestic seed production. These efforts will not only benefit the Union but also contribute to the overall development of the agricultural sector in the region.
Tatyana KUDRYAVTSEVA, reporting for 24.kg news agency.
