Kyrgyzstan to begin exporting raspberries, tayberries and currants to China

Kyrgyzstan can now export raspberries, tayberries and currants to China, according to Erlist Akunbekov, the minister of water resources, agriculture and processing industry.

The market access follows documents signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Kyrgyzstan. Akunbekov said entering the Chinese market required significant work because Chinese import requirements are strict.

The minister called on farmers interested in exporting berries to contact the ministry, which promised to provide the necessary assistance. He said getting goods out of China was easier than bringing products into the country, underscoring the demands facing Kyrgyz producers seeking access to the market.

Kyrgyzstan produces about 240,000 tonnes of fruit and berry products each year. The main producing regions are Issyk-Kul, Batken and Osh, with strawberries, raspberries, currants and cherries among the most common crops.

The country exported more than 5,300 tonnes of fresh berries during the first five months of the year. Russia and Kazakhstan were the main export destinations.