President Mirziyoyev Sets Ambitious Goals for Uzbekistan’s Food Industries
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlined significant plans to propel the growth of Uzbekistan’s fruit, vegetable, and food industries. Acknowledging the remarkable 4.1 percent growth in the agricultural sector in 2023, with industry exports reaching nearly $2 billion, President Mirziyoyev stressed the untapped potential that extends beyond the current achievements.
The meeting, which addressed export and industry-related concerns, focused on tasks for the fruit and vegetable sector. The Agency for Quarantine and Plant Protection was entrusted with exploring new potential markets and facilitating the procurement of export-oriented products.
The Agency, responsible for safeguarding plants from harmful organisms and ensuring food safety, has been actively engaged in numerous initiatives. These include soil analysis of over a million hectares of land, the introduction of seven new information systems, and the digitization of 40 procedures. Notably, the Agency has attracted approximately $20 million in grants for laboratory and equipment upgrades, reflecting a commitment to modernization.
Ensuring the quality and safety of agricultural products, especially fruits and vegetables, has been a priority. Over the years, Uzbekistan has obtained 620 phytosanitary permits for agricultural exports to 80 countries, showcasing adherence to international standards.
During the meeting, officials outlined ambitious goals for the year ahead, aiming to elevate agricultural exports to $3.5 billion. Key strategies include expanding the production of fruits, vegetables, melons, grapes, and grain legumes. Additionally, plans involve creating 20 new mobile laboratories integrated into the uzagrolab.uz electronic platform, digitizing all processes related to pesticide circulation, and prohibiting the import and illegal trade of substandard pesticides.
Furthermore, the initiative involves bringing thousands of gardens, vineyards, fields, and packaging enterprises into compliance with foreign phytosanitary requirements. The introduction of highly effective entomophagy and a new form of biological control for insect pests is also on the agenda.
Uzbekistan’s export focus will shift towards higher-value markets, with plans to obtain phytosanitary permits from eight additional countries. Participation in international exhibitions, the establishment of a modern export infrastructure at international airports, and the improvement of qualifications for plant protection workers are integral parts of the strategy.
President Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of international cooperation, directing efforts to expand the presence of domestic exporters in international fruit and vegetable exhibitions. Collaborative measures with international experts will include developing guidelines for cultivation, storage, packaging, and transportation of each product type.
The Head of State issued additional instructions to enhance food security and bolster the production of export-oriented products, aligning Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector with global standards and fostering sustainable growth.
