In 2024, the area dedicated to strawberry cultivation in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan significantly expanded, reaching 400 hectares due to the increasing interest of local farmers in berry crops, which are in high demand both in domestic markets and for export.
According to local farmers, berry prices fluctuate daily and are heavily influenced by intermediaries. At the end of September 2024, there was a noticeable drop in prices: raspberries were sold for $1.2 per kilogram, and strawberries for $1.9. However, earlier in the season, prices were higher—raspberries were priced at $1.43, and strawberries reached up to $2.4 per kilogram. In peak periods, when the supply of berries on the market decreases, prices can rise to $3 or more.
Farmers complain about the lack of stable pricing and difficulties in selling their berries directly to the market. Often, intermediaries take the harvest on credit, asking farmers to wait for payment, which makes it difficult for farmers to predict their expenses and profits, leading to financial risks.
It is worth noting that in 2023, Kyrgyzstan earned approximately $825,000 from strawberry exports. Strawberry prices vary significantly depending on the season and can range from $3 to $12 per kilogram.
Source: turmush.kg