Uzbekistan is working to eliminate its reliance on potato imports, targeting complete domestic production by 2027. For this purpose, the government has allocated 29.6 million euros this year, emphasizing high-yielding varieties and advanced cultivation techniques.
The strategy includes developing 3 million disease-free potato tubers using in-vitro methods and offering duty exemptions for imported seed potatoes over a three-year period. Additionally, the government is providing cashback incentives on VAT for seed potato sales.
Despite an expected production of 3.7 million tons of potatoes in 2024, the country remains dependent on imports, particularly from Kazakhstan. However, Kazakhstan imposed a potato export ban in January 2025. Uzbekistan's shift towards self-sufficiency aims to enhance food security and stabilize market conditions.
Source: MLVVN