Kyrgyzstan Significantly Increases Mineral Water and Beverage Imports

Kyrgyzstan has seen a substantial surge in its imports of non-alcoholic beverages, including mineral water, juices, and carbonated drinks, during the first five months of 2026. Data from the National Statistical Committee reveals a notable increase in both volume and value compared to the corresponding period in 2025.

In January through May 2026, Kyrgyzstan imported 119 million liters of water with sugar and carbonated beverages, valued at $63.5 million. This represents a 34.3% increase in value compared to the previous year. The main sources for these imports were Kazakhstan, supplying 57 million liters worth $29.6 million, and Uzbekistan, providing 46 million liters valued at $20.9 million, a 4.27-fold increase from Uzbekistan. Russia also contributed, exporting 11 million liters for $8.5 million.

The import of mineral and carbonated waters without sugar experienced an even more dramatic rise, reaching 6.5 million liters valued at $10.5 million. This signifies a 666.3% increase in value, with Russia being the predominant supplier, accounting for 4.2 million liters worth $9.5 million.

Fruit and vegetable juice imports amounted to 3,039 tons, valued at $6.9 million, marking a 144.9% increase in value. Kazakhstan and Russia were the main partners for juice imports, with 1,350 tons and 954 tons, respectively.

Conversely, Kyrgyzstan's exports of these beverages saw a slight decrease. The country exported 8.5 million liters of water with sugar and carbonated drinks worth $3.9 million, a 4.1% decline in value. Kazakhstan remained the primary export destination. Mineral water exports reached 849,845 liters valued at $276,500, a 5.1% increase. The data indicates a significant negative trade balance for beverages, with imports exceeding exports by more than 19.3 times. The sharp increase in imports from Uzbekistan and Russia are identified as key drivers of this trend.