Kyrgyzstan to begin exporting raspberries and blackcurrants to China

Kyrgyzstan is preparing to send raspberries and blackcurrants to China, opening a new market for local fruit producers under agreements signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to the country.

Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry Minister Erlis Akunbekov said the arrangements would allow these fruits to enter the Chinese market. He also noted that exporting goods from China is easier than bringing products into the country, because Chinese authorities impose high requirements on imported goods.

Akunbekov described the opening of the market as a major effort for domestic producers. He called on farmers interested in exporting fruit to contact the ministry, which promised to provide the necessary assistance.

Kyrgyzstan produces about 240,000 tonnes of fruit products each year. The main producing regions are Issyk-Kul, Batken and Osh. Strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrants and cherries are among the country’s most widespread fruit crops.

In the first five months of this year, Kyrgyzstan exported more than 5,300 tonnes of fresh fruit. Russia and Kazakhstan were the main destinations.