Raids by the veterinary and phytosanitary control service took place in Bishkek and Osh.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the main task of the inspections was to identify unscrupulous intermediaries who might pass off potatoes from China as local products.
The agency emphasized that Chinese potatoes are indeed present in the market; however, no cases of their sale under the Kyrgyz brand have been found. Experts note that there are no grounds for imposing restrictions on the import of potatoes from China, as this contradicts the commitments made under the World Trade Organization. These commitments imply mutual trade between participating countries, which also includes the export of Kyrgyz products to China.
The veterinary and phytosanitary control service also recommends that farmers producing potatoes sell their products in a timely manner. It has been observed that some agrarians are storing potatoes in warehouses in hopes of price increases.
According to traders, as of today, the retail price for imported potatoes is 38–40 soms, while local potatoes cost 42–44 soms. Wholesale prices for domestic potatoes range from 35 to 40 soms.
Experts expect that the arrival of early potatoes from the Aravan district will begin soon, which will help curb price increases.
The Ministry of Agriculture warns that prolonged storage of products can lead to spoilage and financial losses for farmers.
