19.06.2025, 19:48
Kazakhstan Relaunches Breeding Livestock Procurement Program
Government support for breeding livestock and beef industry development in Kazakhstan
The Government of Kazakhstan is expanding its efforts to strengthen the beef cattle industry by introducing new credit instruments and reviving support for the procurement of breeding livestock. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, responding to a request from the Majilis deputies regarding rising meat prices, outlined the key directions of the updated state program.
Firstly, loans at a preferential annual interest rate of no more than 5% will be introduced to replenish working capital for feedlots and meat processing enterprises. According to the Prime Minister, such loans will allow companies to purchase feed and raw materials promptly, avoiding cash gaps.
Secondly, the government plans to revive a program similar to "Sybaga" to facilitate the acquisition of breeding stock of both cattle and small ruminants. In addition, from 2024 to 2026, a comprehensive program will be implemented to improve the genetics of beef cattle breeds, aiming to increase productivity and meat quality.
Special attention is being given to expanding the fodder base: in addition to increasing sown areas, efforts will be made to improve pasture infrastructure and storage systems for feed. According to Bektenov, this will create a stable foundation for seasonal and year-round supply of feed mixtures.
To reduce production costs, pilot projects using Australian technologies are being launched in six regions. These initiatives aim to minimize capital expenditures and optimize cattle fattening processes.
Among the measures ensuring food security, the export ban on breeding stock of both cattle and small livestock will remain in place. Additionally, the export limit for young bulls will be reduced from 85,000 to 60,000 heads, preserving high-quality resources within the country and supporting the development of domestic meat markets.
An essential part of the production chain is the modernization of slaughter facilities. The Ministry of Ecology and regional akimats emphasize that specialized slaughter points — which comply with veterinary and sanitary standards and are equipped with laboratories — are far more efficient than primitive facilities. In 2024, 18 such slaughter points were commissioned, and construction of another 224 is planned for 2025. These projects are being implemented through both state funding and private investment.