Farmers from the Batken region in Kyrgyzstan are concerned about the difficulties they face when selling their apricot crop in particular the best dried varieties. This issue was raised during an earlier meeting of the Vice Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Edil Baisalov, as well as residents from the Batken district.

An individual from the Batken district said that a lot of residents depend on apricots to earn a living, however the prices have been extremely low for this season. The resident pointed out that “Bargek,” which is a dried apricot with a high-end taste sells for 1.1 euros, which is which is a reduction from 10.8 euros the year before. She urged government assistance to boost exports and said that, without assistance the farmers won’t be able to earn enough to pay for their necessities.

Baisalov pointed out the significance of creating cooperatives that standardize the process of drying and processing Apricots to ensure the same quality of apricots for export. The apricot expert said a uniform method would allow farmers to meet the standards for exports that are required. The newly created “Kyrgyz Export” Center will aid farmers with exploring possibilities for export and getting financing via cooperatives.

“Currently individuals who are farmers do not get loans. However, there are possibilities through cooperatives with farmers.” Baisalov stated.

At present prices for dried apricots from the variety ‘Bargek’ is at 2.7 euros for a kilogram. Apricots dried round, contingent on their quality, may cost upwards of 4.9 euros for a kilogram.

Every year it is estimated that the Batken region produces many tonnes of dried and fresh Apricots. Apricots are cultivated on around eight thousand hectares within the region. Farmers have already taken part of this year’s crop to be sold for export.

In Batken city, in the time of season, this kind of apricots was available with prices that varied between 0.9 to 2.5 EUR per kilogram.

Source: turmush.kg