Currently, organic crops occupy only about 1% of all sown areas in the country, despite widespread estimates ranging from 5 to 10%.
Akımaliyev emphasized that organic production implies a complete rejection of the use of pesticides, chemicals, antibiotics, hormones, and other synthetic substances. He noted that in the context of mass trade, implementing such practices is extremely difficult.
For the successful growth of organic agriculture, it is necessary to create comfortable conditions for farmers, including access to preferential loans, irrigation water, mineral fertilizers, and equipment.
According to the scientist, only with comprehensive support can sustainable development in this area be achieved.
Moreover, Akımaliyev dispelled the myth of the incompatibility of organic and mineral fertilizers. He explained: “Our mineral fertilizers are natural products. Nitrogen is extracted from the atmosphere, phosphorus from deposits, potassium from reserves in Russia and Belarus. When applying organic fertilizers, the dosage of mineral ones should be reduced by half. For example, if previously 120 kg of nitrogen per hectare was recommended, now only 60 kg is sufficient, and for phosphorus, 90 kg instead of 180, and 35 kg of potassium instead of 70.”
The academician noted that long-term research shows that the best results in increasing yields are achieved through the combined use of both organic and mineral fertilizers.
He added that these two types of fertilizers do not compete but rather complement each other. A transition to the complete use of organic fertilizers may lead to a decrease in yield and deterioration of soil fertility.
Akımaliyev also pointed out that the country's need for mineral fertilizers is 310 thousand tons per year, but only about 100 thousand tons are actually used.
He urged farmers and producers of organic products to consider these recommendations to increase yields and improve food security in the country.
