Meat Exports and Locust Control: Key Agreements Between Kazakhstan and China

The first meeting of the Subcommittee on Agricultural Cooperation between Kazakhstan and China was held today in Astana. The meeting was conducted via videoconference with the participation of the Vice Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yermek Kenzhekhanuly, and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Zhang Zhili. The parties discussed key issues of bilateral cooperation, including agricultural trade, the implementation of advanced technologies, and phytosanitary safety.

Growth in Trade Turnover and Market Expansion
During the discussions, both sides noted a positive trend in agricultural trade between the two countries. In 2024, the trade turnover in the agricultural sector increased by 10.5%, reaching $1.4 billion. These figures indicate a high potential for further growth and the need to expand mutual supplies.
One of the priority topics was improving conditions for the export of Kazakhstani products to China. In particular, the discussion focused on the supply of meat, poultry, beet pulp, and potatoes. The Kazakh side expressed interest in signing new protocols that would allow domestic producers to enter the Chinese market with fewer administrative barriers.

Scientific and Technological Cooperation: New Opportunities
Another important area of negotiations was the development of joint research in agriculture. Kazakhstan and China are considering establishing joint laboratories to study innovative technologies in fields such as biopharmaceuticals and ecology. Both sides expressed their readiness to exchange knowledge and experience, which will accelerate the implementation of modern solutions in the agricultural sector.

Joint Efforts in Pest Control
The issue of locust control in border areas was also discussed. Given the growing threat that locusts pose to agricultural lands, Kazakhstan and China have agreed to conduct joint inspections and apply modern control methods, enhancing phytosanitary security.

Prospects and Future Steps
The results of the meeting demonstrated a strong mutual interest in strengthening agricultural cooperation. In the near future, both sides plan to continue negotiations on specific areas, including simplifying export procedures and implementing joint scientific projects. These new agreements are expected to open additional opportunities for farmers in both countries and contribute to the further strengthening of bilateral relations.

🔑 Key Takeaways:
🔹 Trade Growth: Agricultural trade turnover between Kazakhstan and China grew by 10.5%, reaching $1.4 billion. Kazakhstan is planning to expand exports of meat, poultry, beet pulp, and potatoes.
🔹 Science and Technology: Discussions are underway to establish joint laboratories for the development of biopharmaceuticals and eco-friendly agricultural technologies.
🔹 Locust Control: Agreements have been reached on joint measures to ensure phytosanitary security in border regions.