🌾 Record Grain Harvest in Kazakhstan: Experts Evaluate Quality and Prospects

🔹 In 2024, Kazakhstan harvested 26.5 million tons of grain, although the final volume may decrease by 15–20% after cleaning.

🔹 The grain quality is higher than last year, yet farmers faced challenges such as delayed financing and worn-out machinery.

🔹 It is crucial for Kazakhstan to develop alternative export routes to reduce dependence on transit through Russia.

 

Kazakhstan’s grain harvest reached 26.5 million tons in bunker weight in 2024, significantly exceeding previous years: in 2023, farmers harvested 17.1 million tons, in 2022 – 22.03 million tons, and in 2021 – 16.3 million tons. According to the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan, these record volumes might change after cleaning, which usually reduces mass by 15–20%. Akpar Maulenov, Deputy Chairman of the Farmers' Association of Kazakhstan, noted that although this result is impressive, it includes “waste” in the bunker weight, so the actual volume will be known later.

 

Maulenov also stated that the grain quality this year is better than last. Most farmers managed to harvest before the rains, positively impacting the crop. Despite a cold and late spring that delayed sowing, timely fertilization and disease control helped preserve the yield and ensure good quality. The grain has a high gluten content, although its test weight is slightly weaker, which is linked to the delayed grain filling.

A significant issue this season was delayed financing. According to Maulenov, only in summer did the promised 580 billion tenge in agricultural loans become available, whereas farmers need funding at the beginning of the year to buy equipment, fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds. Next year, 750 billion tenge is expected to be allocated, with financing starting in December, which the Association hopes will better support farmers' preparations. However, the issue of equipment remains critical: 80% of Kazakhstan's agricultural machinery is outdated, with only 3–4% renewed annually, although 10% is necessary for optimal functioning. The subsidized leasing program helps modernize equipment, but more funding is needed.

Another pressing issue is grain storage. Kazakhstan has 250 storage facilities, of which only 194 are licensed. Most facilities were built during the Soviet era and cannot ensure thorough drying and cleaning of grain, forcing farmers to seek alternative solutions. High modernization costs further hinder storage infrastructure development.

Regarding exports, Kazakhstan’s grain is primarily sent to Central Asian countries – Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, as well as Iran and Azerbaijan. In the autumn season, logistical issues arise due to the high volume of simultaneous shipments. While rail transport issues have been partially resolved, road transport, particularly toward the Caspian Sea, remains challenging. Maulenov stressed the need for Kazakhstan to develop alternative export routes, such as sea shipments via the Caspian Sea, to reduce dependence on Russian transit.

This year, grain prices are expected to rise only for high-gluten varieties due to their shortage. Prices for other types of grain will likely remain stable.