Kazakhstan: Trading in Light, Vegetables, and Clothing
In terms of trade volume with Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan ranks third. Kyrgyzstan trades with a total of 141 countries worldwide. Of this, 12 percent of Kyrgyzstan's total trade is with its closest neighbor. Over the past three years, this figure has tripled. Today, a conference dedicated to trade cooperation between the states took place in Bishkek.
The Deputy Minister of Economy of the Kyrgyz Republic, Danil Ibraev, noted that 86 percent of electricity exports from Kyrgyzstan go to Kazakhstan. Additionally, 96 percent of milk and dairy product exports, 56 percent of vegetable exports, and 52 percent of clothing exports also go there.
In turn, the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic, Marat Sharshkeev, reported that the total trade turnover between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan exceeded $1 billion in 2013. This impressive figure confirms the obvious conclusion – Kazakhstan remains Kyrgyzstan's main trading partner.
"At the same time, it can be said that our potential is utilized to a small extent. There are obstacles that prevent the full realization of Kyrgyzstan's trade potential in neighboring Kazakhstan. Therefore, many issues have to be resolved on a bilateral basis," added Danil Ibraev.
Part of the solution to this problem may also involve increasing Kyrgyzstan's trade turnover with other foreign countries. Entrepreneurs are confident that the prerequisites for a successful entry into new markets have already been established. There are already orders – for example, from Italian firms for the supply of 5 tons of walnuts and 15,000 tons of dried fruits from Kyrgyzstan.
"The year has started quite dynamically in the economy, and interest in the products of Kyrgyz producers has noticeably increased. Participation in the 'Green Exhibition' in Germany is bearing fruit. Previously, all entrepreneurs coming to us had one desire – to sell; now the situation has changed, our closest friends have come to see our products and discuss terms," says the head of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Marat Sharshkeev.
