The price of potatoes in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek, has surged to KGS 60-65 ($0.69 - $0.74) per kilogram, prompting concerns over affordability for the public. With the price hike, the Kyrgyz Ministry of Agriculture is considering temporarily restricting potato exports to stabilize the market and ensure food security, as reported by 24.kg.
MP Eldar Abakirov raised concerns regarding the high prices during a parliamentary session, urging the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry to outline its plans for the upcoming tillage season.
Abakirov pointed out that while potatoes are grown in large areas such as Issyk-Kul, Aloy, Chon-Aloy, and Kochkor regions, the rising costs have burdened consumers. "A bag of flour costs 1,700 soms, while a bag of potatoes costs KGS 2,500 - 3,000 ($29 - $34)," he said.
The ministry is weighing the option of imposing a temporary export restriction, aiming to curb price speculation on key food items. The move is intended to prevent further price inflation and ensure sufficient supplies for domestic consumption.
Minister Bakit Toroboyev has instructed relevant state agencies, regional deputies, and local authorities to monitor food prices closely following this development.
This situation follows a similar occurrence in Kazakhstan earlier this year, where potato prices in cities rose sharply to KZT 455 ($0.88) due to increased demand from Uzbekistan and high export prices. In response, Kazakhstan introduced a temporary export ban, exempting exports to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries.
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