In his opinion, despite the funds allocated by the Ministry of Agriculture and the government, the meat supply system remains ineffective, leading to an increase in the number of intermediaries and, consequently, a rise in prices.
“Despite the financial assistance from the Ministry of Agriculture and the government, the supply chain is essentially not functioning. As a result, we are witnessing a rise in meat prices and an increase in the number of intermediaries,” he noted.
Mamytkanov reported that the association has been selling meat at fairs for about 600 soms per kilogram for several months, while managing without government support.
“We purchase livestock at the market, fatten it, and sell the meat at around 600 soms per kilogram. This is our own product,” he clarified.
According to the expert, the association was allocated a trading space at the Osh market; however, it is located far from the main meat row, which has negatively impacted sales volumes.
“Our meat sales at 600 soms are suffering because buyers do not reach our location. At the same time, competing sellers set prices at the level of 660–750 soms,” he added.
Mamytkanov emphasized that the association has repeatedly requested the Bishkek city administration and the Ministry of Agriculture to allocate a permanent trading space in the central part of the meat row, but the issue remains unresolved.
The expert also reported that about 50 tons of beef are slaughtered daily in Bishkek, and considering lamb, the total meat consumption in winter reaches approximately 100 tons per day.
Additionally, the association proposed to create mobile trading points for selling meat at more affordable prices. Mamytkanov noted that previously an agroholding promised to set up 11 such points.
Currently, the wholesale price of meat is around 720 soms per kilogram. Taking into account losses during cutting and selling individual parts at lower prices, this affects the final cost for consumers.
The expert concluded that although meat production in the country continues, the supply and sales system still requires significant improvements.
