High competition with imported products reduces the profitability of local producers, El.kz reports.
Kazakh gardeners face difficulties in selling products. For 7 months of 2024, about 107.3 thousand tons of apples were imported (an increase of 58% compared to the same period in 2023).
The main imports are from Poland, Iran, Uzbekistan, and China. At the same time, the growth of imports is due to the growth of imports from China by 18 times and from Iran by 7 times.
- In this regard, in order to support domestic apple production and ensure the sale of domestic products, the Interdepartmental Commission on Foreign Trade Policy and Participation in International Economic Organizations approved the introduction of a ban on the import of apples (HS code: 080810) by road from third countries until December 31, 2024. The ban on the import of apples was introduced only for the harvest period, which will allow domestic gardeners to lay the harvested crop and sell products at an affordable price. During the off-season, the import of apples will not be limited. The restriction will not affect the import of apples from the EAEU member states and the international transit of apples through the territory of Kazakhstan. The order was put into effect from the date of its first official publication, the Ministry of Agriculture reported.