Tajikistan's agricultural exports saw a boost in the first half of 2023, with 103,000 tons of farm products exported, valued at $24.1mn. This is a 3.6mn decrease from the same period last year, media reports.
Watermelon and dried fruit exports rose by 47.2% and 26.5% respectively, while onions decreased by 19.6%.
Tajikistan planted over 22,600 hectares of land this year, yielding a record onion harvest of about 700,000 tons. However, farmers are struggling to sell their onions as there is no wholesale buyer available.
Meanwhile, watermelons are also expensive for buyers, with an average 3-4 kg watermelon costing at least TJS 15 ($1.35).
Despite this, manufacturers claim they only release watermelons at up to TJS 3 per kg ($0.27), with merchants increasing prices.
Watermelons in Tajikistan come in various sizes and shapes, with some weighing up to 20 kilograms. They are usually harvested in July and August and are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
In recent years, watermelon production in Tajikistan has increased, with farmers adopting modern techniques and technologies to improve yields. The government has also supported watermelon cultivation by providing subsidies and other forms of assistance to farmers. As a result, watermelons have become an important crop for many rural communities in Tajikistan, providing a source of income and employment opportunities.
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