Efirovos became famous across the Soviet Union for its successes in processing essential oil crops, such as nutmeg sage and mint. The factory that operated here was one of four similar enterprises in the USSR, relocated from Ukraine. Other regions, such as the Stavropol Krai, Moldova, and Abkhazia, also had similar factories.
“The factory was founded in 1936 in the Panfilov district of the Chui region. This place had favorable climatic conditions for cultivating heat-loving perennials, such as nutmeg sage and mint. The factory had 200 hectares of land where raw materials were grown. Every year, 80-90 centners of harvest were collected from one hectare. In addition, the factory accepted raw materials from farmers throughout the district. During the season, about 9,000 kilograms of oil were produced in three shifts,” shared memories of Asanbek Syrgytaev, one of the last directors of the factory.
“In addition to the main production, there was also a workshop in this village for the production of juniper oil, which was brought from the mountains. During the war, juniper oil was used in medicine as an effective hemostatic agent. The factory operated in three shifts, and even we, as schoolchildren, did our internships here. This enterprise was subordinate to Moscow, and the entire village was under Moscow's support. Working here was very prestigious. The finished products — essential oils — were sent to the leading perfume factories of the Soviet Union,” recalled Sartbay Suynaliev.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the factory ceased to exist. There was also a large confectionery factory in the village, but now there is not a single manufacturing enterprise on the territory. Local residents continue to earn a living solely through agriculture.
