The Government of Kazakhstan, during a session of the Interdepartmental Commission, discussed and decided to impose a ban on the import of apples into the country.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the total apple harvest this year is projected to reach 300,000 tons. In 2024, apple orchards are expected to reach full production capacity, with an anticipated 18% increase in yield, which will fully meet the domestic market's needs. As a result of the discussion, a temporary ban was decided upon, prohibiting the import of apples by road from third countries, except for imports from the Eurasian Economic Union countries, until the end of the year.
Meanwhile, LS reviewed apple imports for the first half of 2024, revealing that 94,000 tons of foreign apples were supplied to local markets—a 1.6-fold increase compared to the same period last year, costing Kazakhstan $40.9 million.
The largest share came from Poland with 46,900 tons, up 13.8%. Imports from other countries saw sharp increases: Iran supplied 21,000 tons, seven times more than last year; China provided 13,200 tons, a 15.3-fold increase; and Moldova sent 1,600 tons, a more than 16-fold rise.
Conversely, imports from Uzbekistan decreased by 9.4%, with 7,800 tons of apples delivered. Additionally, a small batch of 37.7 tons was sent from Italy, whereas no shipments had been received from Italy last year.
Source: lsm.kz