Farmers in the Kostanay region, Kazakhstan are facing challenges in selling their potatoes beyond the local market due to oversupply, as reported by BaigeNews.kz. The region's vegetable growers express concerns over the situation, with Vladimir Semyakin, director of the NPP "Invest Plus," stating that they are feeling the effects keenly.
Difficulties for vegetable growers began last autumn, with heavy rains complicating the harvest. Despite the challenges, they managed to gather a quality yield. However, the influx of Russian potatoes into the market has driven down prices, making it hard for local produce to compete.
"In January, we were selling potatoes for 0.12 euro per kilogram, and by March, the price had risen to 0.15 euro. Yet, we have no outlets beyond the Kostanay region. Partners from Western Kazakhstan, who traditionally bought our potatoes at the end of the season or when Russian produce was of lower quality, are not purchased this year," says Vladimir Semyakin.
The situation worsens with the first fresh southern potatoes entering the market in May, leaving Kostanay potatoes unwanted and at risk of spoilage. Currently, the cost price of locally produced potatoes stands at around 0.21 euros per kilogram.
Furthermore, farmers are grappling with overdue subsidies from the previous year. Semyakin emphasizes the need for government intervention to address these issues. Dmitry Evstafyev, deputy head of the regional agriculture department, acknowledges the challenges faced by potato growers but maintains that the region's needs are adequately met.
The price for imported potatoes from Russia is approximately 0.08 – 0.09 euros per kilogram, making it a tough competition for local farmers. Evstafyev highlights the need for understanding, given the region's agricultural risks.
source: baigenews.kz