Kazakhstan temporarily bans tomato imports

Kazakhstan has implemented a temporary ban on the import of fresh and chilled tomatoes from countries outside the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The Ministry of Agriculture signed a decree enacting the restriction, which will remain in effect until June 30 and applies to all modes of transport.

The move comes in response to warnings from farmers in the Turkestan region, who have been struggling with an influx of inexpensive tomatoes from countries like China and Turkmenistan. These cheap imports have flooded the regional market, driving down prices and threatening the viability of local greenhouse tomato production.

Approximately 2,000 farms in the Saryagash district cultivate greenhouse tomatoes across about 400 hectares. Farmers in the area have expressed concerns about potential bankruptcy if the situation persists, highlighting the economic pressure exerted by foreign competition.

While the ban targets third countries, it does not affect shipments originating from EAEU member states. Transit shipments of tomatoes passing through Kazakhstan and those moving between EAEU countries via Kazakhstan are also permitted, ensuring continued regional trade flows.