Kazakhstan forecasts $7.2bn in agricultural exports in 2026
Kazakhstan anticipates agricultural exports will hit $7.2 billion by the close of 2026, following a 36% year-on-year increase in shipments to $3 billion during the January-April period, as reported to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a government briefing on the sector's performance in the first half of the year.
Agriculture Minister Aidarbek Saparov noted that food production rose by 14.7% in the first six months, while total agricultural output grew by 4.4%. Crop production saw a 7.7% increase, and livestock production also experienced a 4.4% rise.
The minister highlighted ongoing government efforts to diversify crop areas, enhance concessional lending for farmers, and develop leasing programs for agricultural machinery.
Additionally, authorities are working to boost the proportion of processed agricultural products in the sector to 70% and expand the variety of food exports. Tokayev received updates on the execution of Kazakhstan's livestock development plan, which includes concessional financing for farms of all sizes to enhance livestock numbers, improve productivity, and increase meat exports, with a particular focus on pasture-based livestock farming.
The president was also informed about the approval of a veterinary development plan extending to 2030, which aims to enhance veterinary safety, increase funding for the sector, and modernize regulations. The digital transformation of agriculture is progressing through the unified E-APK platform, which connects government information systems and digital services.
According to ministry projections, Kazakhstan's gross agricultural output is expected to rise by 5.9% by the end of 2026, with food production anticipated to increase by 9.5% and beverage production by 10.5%. Investment in the sector is forecasted to reach KZT 2.2 trillion ($4.65 billion).
In closing the meeting, Tokayev directed the government to enhance the sector's efficiency, increase the production of higher value-added goods, strengthen export capabilities, and bolster the nation's food security.