On February 15 of this year, visitors to the new livestock market noted a sharp decline in the number of agricultural animals. While approximately 450 head of cattle, 220 horses, and about 750 sheep and goats were brought to the previous market in a week, this time the total number has decreased by about 30%.
Several possible reasons for this phenomenon are being discussed among local livestock breeders.
The first version concerns the expectation of rising purchase prices. After the adjustment of regulatory prices for meat, the price per kilogram increased from 680 to 740 soms, prompting farmers to hope for an increase in wholesale prices and to postpone the sale of livestock.
The second reason is competition with other markets. Some livestock breeders prefer to take their animals to the market in the village of Sokuluk, which is considered larger and more modern.
The third reason is the increase in transportation costs. Sellers note that the cost of freight transportation has risen. If previously the delivery of animals to the old market cost about 500 soms, now it reaches 1500 soms to the new market. For the same amount, animals can also be transported to the Sokuluk district.
Significant changes have also affected the cost of travel for buyers. If previously a trip by minibus to the old market cost 25 soms, now the price has risen to 100 soms per person. Taxi prices have also changed — private drivers used to charge 300 soms, but now they ask up to 1000 soms.
It should be noted that new rules are in effect at the market. According to the law "On Veterinary Medicine," animal owners are required to have veterinary accompanying documents when selling and transporting livestock. Without such certificates, animals are not allowed into the market.
Moreover, other changes have been introduced at the new market. To reduce congestion at the entrance, administrators have changed the procedure for collecting the trading fee: now the payment is collected upon exiting the market area, most often paid by the buyer.
This innovation has resolved an old problem: previously, some sellers sold sheep and goats before the entrance to avoid paying the fee. Now, entry to the market is free for everyone, and payments are made upon exit.
