According to the expert, the main goal of processing is not only to preserve the harvest but also to increase its profitability and create opportunities for export.
“On a global level, losses amount to about 50%. If we manage to preserve 95% of the products through processing, it will be a significant achievement,” he noted.
Akimaliev emphasized that processing contributes to increasing the profitability of agricultural products. For example, currently, the profitability of some goods is only 15%, but after processing, it can rise to 60%. The scientist cited milk, potatoes, and sugar beets as examples.
He also mentioned that potatoes can be used to produce starch, French fries, chips, and flour. “Six kilograms of potatoes yield one kilogram of starch. Why aren’t we using this potential? It creates added value and new jobs,” he added.
Additionally, processing wheat allows for the production of flour, cereals, alcohol, and animal feed from straw. Akimaliev also pointed out that meat processing is necessary: “Where are our sausages, wieners, smoked and boiled sausages? There is huge potential here.”
To realize these opportunities, in his opinion, large enterprises need to be established, such as meat processing plants and dairy factories in each region, as well as factories for processing vegetables, fruits, and potatoes.
“If, in the next five years, the level of processing of all agricultural products reaches 25%, it will be a significant victory for our agriculture,” the academician concluded.
Akimaliev also pointed out that the development of agro-industrial processing is closely linked to government support and attention from the President and the government, as well as active actions from all ministries.
