Kyrgyzstan has entered into a trade agreement with Ecofruit, a leading Uzbek exporter of dried fruits, facilitating systematic exports to Europe and the Persian Gulf. Ecofruit has shown interest in Kyrgyz nuts and dried fruits, noting their quality and ecological purity.
The Kyrgyz Ministry of Economy stated, "Among the products that can enter international markets are apricots, dried uruk, prunes, walnuts, pistachios, barberries, and white and red beans. Of particular interest were walnuts and prunes, which enjoy stable demand in foreign markets."
Ecofruit plans to establish a representative office in Kyrgyzstan, indicating intentions for long-term collaboration. Kyrgyzstan is broadening its dried fruit exports, with apples constituting the largest portion of fruit and berry production. In 2023, nearly 1,000 tons of dried apples were exported to Germany, with Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan, and Japan as other major importers. Sample shipments are reaching the Persian Gulf and South Korea.
Dried apples, once mainly an ingredient, are now also marketed as snacks. Kyrgyzstan's beans, particularly from the Talas region, are a major export, reaching Turkey, Russia, India, Iran, and various European countries. In 2024, exports expanded to China, with 16 companies registered as official suppliers.
Walnuts, grown mainly in the southern regions, especially the Arslanbob walnut forests, have a broad global market. By the end of 2023, agreements to export walnuts to China and Turkey were signed. Russia remains a primary buyer, with exports also reaching the Middle East.
With Ecofruit's expansion in Kyrgyzstan, the nuts and dried fruits sector is set for enhanced global market integration, potentially increasing export volumes and establishing new trade routes.
Source: Times of Central Asia