Temporary Ban on Potato Exports in the Works, says Agriculture Ministry
Bishkek – 03 February 2025
The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry of Kyrgyzstan is considering implementing a temporary ban on potato exports, as reported by the ministry’s press service.
The purpose of this proposed measure is to prevent price speculation on essential food items and to safeguard food security within the country.
During a meeting on food prices in Kyrgyzstan, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, Bakyt Torobaev, instructed various government agencies, Presidential Envoys, and local government bodies to closely monitor the costs of food products.
This decision comes after the government of Kazakhstan imposed a temporary ban on potato exports to third countries for a period of six months, with exceptions for countries within the Eurasian Economic Union. The aim of this move was to stabilize potato prices in the domestic market, which had surged due to increased demand from neighboring countries, particularly Uzbekistan.
By considering a similar restriction on potato exports, the Kyrgyz government hopes to maintain stability in the local market and ensure that essential food items remain accessible to all citizens.
Written by Saliya Khurova for 24.kg news agency.
