Kazakhstan May Introduce Quotas on Potato Exports Due to Poor Harvest in Russia
The Kazakh government is considering the possibility of introducing quotas on potato exports in response to a significant reduction in the harvest in the Russian Federation. These measures aim to prevent mass exports of potatoes abroad, stabilize prices in the domestic market, and ensure the country’s food security.
This is reported by AgroReview
Current Situation in the Potato Market
Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektanov reported that this year only 7.3 million tons of potatoes were harvested in the organized sector in Russia, which is 1.5 million tons less compared to the previous year. As a result of this deficit, the risk of significant demand for Kazakh potatoes from Central Asian countries, which traditionally imported this product from Russia, is increasing.
The Kazakh government is considering the possibility of introducing quotas on potato exports due to the significant reduction in the harvest in neighboring Russia, which creates risks of mass product export. Authorities plan to require farmers to sell half of their harvest in the domestic market to stabilize prices and ensure food security.
Yield and Main Export Directions
By the end of 2025, Kazakhstan harvested over 2.9 million tons of potatoes with an average yield of 225.9 centners per hectare. The total area planted with potatoes amounted to 131.2 thousand hectares, with household farms accounting for 36% of the total harvest. Uzbekistan remains the main importer of Kazakh potatoes, accounting for over 90% of total exports.
To protect domestic consumers, contracts have already been signed for the supply of 146.8 thousand tons of products. The proposed quota mechanism stipulates that large producers will have the right to export no more than 50% of their harvest on the condition that the other half is sold within the country. Moreover, the decision to limit exports is influenced by unfavorable climatic conditions: increased humidity and early frosts reduce the storage life of potatoes.