20.02.2026, 10:57
Crop structure is being revised in southern Kazakhstan
The region is focusing on a resource-efficient farming model and increasing productivity
Active preparations for the 2026 spring field campaign have begun in Zhambyl region. The work is being carried out amid a revision of the crop structure and modernization of the irrigation system, according to the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
This year, the total sowing area in the region will amount to 623.3 thousand hectares, which is 16.7 thousand hectares less than in 2025. The changes are strategic in nature and aimed at diversifying crop production and reducing the share of water-intensive crops.
Wheat is planned on 145.1 thousand hectares, barley on 187.8 thousand hectares, and corn on 23.3 thousand hectares. Oilseeds will occupy 40 thousand hectares, while fodder crops will cover 185 thousand hectares. Thus, the region is transitioning to a more sustainable and resource-efficient agricultural model.
According to official statistics cited by APK-Inform, in 2025 the sowing areas in Zhambyl region were distributed as follows: wheat — 159 thousand hectares, barley — 185 thousand hectares, corn — 18 thousand hectares, oilseeds — 38 thousand hectares.
The adjustment of the crop structure coincides with the start of reconstruction of 76 irrigation canals supported by the Islamic Development Bank. The total length of the upgraded hydraulic facilities exceeds 430 km, with irrigated land covering 51.4 thousand hectares. The projects are being implemented in the Baizak, Merke, Sarysu, Talas, and Shu districts. Upon completion, the region is expected to receive a more reliable water supply system, creating conditions for further growth of the agricultural sector.
Winter crops have been planted on 145.1 thousand hectares. In spring 2026, it is planned to sow 325 thousand hectares with spring crops. Currently, 58 thousand tons of seeds have been prepared, which accounts for 93% of the required volume.
Increasing productivity is among the priorities. This season, 109.7 thousand tons of mineral fertilizers are planned to be applied on 478.2 thousand hectares. For comparison, 99.7 thousand tons were applied in 2024.
State support for farmers is provided under the “Ken Dala-2” program. Agricultural producers have submitted applications totaling 4.6 billion tenge, of which 2.5 billion tenge have already been issued on concessional terms.
