ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 10. President
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has instructed the government to develop a
new law on agricultural cooperation by September 1, at a government
meeting, Trend
reports via the press service of the Kazakh President.
"Issues surrounding the deep processing of raw materials are
particularly pertinent in the agricultural sector. The current
model of support for the agro-industrial complex predominantly
emphasizes increasing gross output, rather than addressing the
underlying structural challenges. Consequently, the country remains
reliant on food imports, contributing to escalating prices," he
stated.
The president pointed out that while the government's support
has boosted gross output, it fails to tackle the sector’s
fundamental problems. He stressed the need for systemic reforms
aimed at advancing the food processing industry and incentivizing
farmers to establish modern cooperatives.
"We possess considerable potential for livestock development,
yet this opportunity remains largely untapped. The livestock sector
is hindered by the absence of a cohesive strategy, slow
developmental progress, and disorganized management. Several issues
in this sector remain unresolved, with a significant share of
production originating from household and family farms, which
contribute 60% of meat production and 80% of milk," Tokayev
explained.
He stated that the current situation does not contribute to
increasing productivity in the sector. The country has not
established a clear process chain, from forming the feed base to
processing, logistics, and sales. Tokayev added that there is no
unified management system in place.
According to the president, the government must take decisive
measures to encourage farmers to unite in new types of
cooperatives.
