Kazakh scientists develop new potato variety

Kazakh scientists have developed a new potato variety designed to withstand local conditions while delivering high yields. Named Aitkhozhin, the variety is also resistant to several diseases, according to the researchers.

The work brought together specialists from the Kazakh Research Institute of Fruit and Vegetable Growing and the Murat Aitkhozhin Institute of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Their task was to create a potato suited to Kazakhstan’s soil and climate without sacrificing the qualities considered essential to agriculture.

The researchers used traditional breeding methods alongside modern biotechnological and molecular-genetic technologies. The Ministry of Science said the work was carried out under Budget Program 267, titled “Increasing the Accessibility of Education and Scientific Research,” and a program-targeted funding project for 2024-2026.

The wider project aims to support the sustainable development of potato, vegetable and melon farming through breeding, seed production, biotechnology and modern agricultural methods. The announcement comes after Agriculture Vice Minister Azat Sultanov said Kazakhstan would not face shortages of domestic potatoes and other vegetables despite abnormal heat and unstable weather.