Kazakhstani Meat Exports Remain Competitive Despite Uzbekistan’s Subsidies

Kazakhstani meat is not facing serious competition in Uzbekistan, Deputy Agriculture Minister Amangaliy Berdalin said at a government briefing, Orda.kz reports.

Since April 1, Uzbekistan has subsidized 50% of the cost of air delivery for meat products from other countries. Berdalin said Kazakhstan does not see foreign suppliers as competitors on the Uzbek market.

He added that proximity remains a key factor in pricing. The ministry believes Kazakh beef and lamb will remain profitable for neighboring countries under any conditions because of convenient logistics.

Subsidizing logistics is normal practice. Kazakhstan, for example, subsidizes delivery for dairy and commodity farms. At the same time, meat exports from Kazakhstan increased 43% over the past year. The main markets remain Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and the Persian Gulf countries. Kazakhstani meat has strong characteristics, which are recognized by consumers in importing countries,he said.

This year, the ministry plans to enter the markets of Japan, South Korea and Turkey. Preparations and coordination of veterinary requirements are underway.

Original author: Eva Golovintseva

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