Record Wheat Export Confirms Effectiveness of Transport Subsidies

By the end of 2025, Kazakhstan’s grain sector realized its export potential at volumes exceeding 13 million tons, largely facilitated by state support for logistics. According to Prodkorporation, over KZT 30 billion was allocated to reimburse transport costs, enabling subsidies for the export of 1.7 million tons of wheat.

Speaking at the international Kazakh Grain & Logistic Forum in Almaty, the head of the agency, Asylkhan Dzhuwashev, emphasized the significant expansion of supply geography: in addition to traditional markets, domestic grain strengthened its position in North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, and for the first time, shipments were made to Vietnam. This year, the national operator intends to continue developing new routes and strengthening international ties.

Financial instruments supporting farmers play a special role in stabilizing the market. In particular, through forward and direct purchase mechanisms, more than 200 farms in key grain-producing regions were financed last season, with approximately KZT 30 billion allocated. Preparation for the new agricultural cycle began in advance: as early as December 2025, applications for early financing of spring works were accepted, and currently, 142,000 tons of grain have already been contracted under the prepayment system. Plans for 2026 include expanding purchase limits for corn and increasing oilseed production, the demand for which continues to grow.

The strategic direction of the sector’s development is shifting toward diversification of sown areas and deep processing of raw materials. Asylkhan Dzhuwashev noted that the global market is currently characterized by high volatility due to geopolitical and climatic factors, amid record global harvests and changing trade routes. In this context, Kazakhstan is adapting to demands for vegetable oils and dietary protein by increasing the share of oilseeds in production. According to the corporation’s management, the current market environment provides opportunities not only for quantitative export growth but also for a qualitative transformation of the agricultural sector toward a processing model capable of efficiently responding to the modern challenges of the Eurasian food space.