Kazakhstan may lose part of its export markets for potatoes and carrots in neighboring countries due to delays in issuing phytosanitary certificates. Although the export ban was lifted on July 29, certificates were only resumed on September 6. As a result, around 11 farms incurred additional costs because their shipments were stalled at the border.
The difficulties were caused by overly cautious procedures from government agencies, which did not distinguish between early and late harvests. Early batches, which need immediate sale, were affected most and created financial pressure for growers preparing for the main harvest. Late potato varieties can be stored in specialized warehouses until April, but after this period, the quality declines. This season, part of the harvest remains in the fields due to low market prices, although no major losses in storage have been reported so far.
According to experts, Kazakhstan has not completely lost access to foreign markets but is gradually losing positions in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan for potatoes, and in Russia for carrots. The situation reflects broader challenges related to unstable export rules and rising production costs. Farmers face high input expenses for seeds, machinery, and crop protection products, which are imported from Europe, while sales are conducted in the local currency, the tenge.
To support producers, the national union continues to cooperate with ministries, regional authorities, and trading platforms. It provides guidance on export markets, agronomy, seed selection, and legal matters. However, the risk of repeated disruptions remains significant.
Source: lsm.kz