Kazakhstan is preparing to introduce its iconic Almaty aport apples to international markets after the variety attracted strong interest from European partners at Grune Woche 2026 in Germany.
During the exhibition, QazTrade and the Association of Almaty Aport Producers signed a memorandum aimed at promoting aport apples and their processed products abroad, according to the Ministry of Trade and Integration of Kazakhstan.
The aport is one of Kazakhstan’s most distinctive apple varieties and is closely associated with the natural and cultural heritage of Almaty, widely regarded as the ancestral home of apples. Known for their large size, rich aroma, and juiciness, aport apples are also highly demanding to cultivate.
High-quality aport can only be grown at elevations between 850 and 1,250 meters above sea level, primarily in the foothills surrounding Almaty. Unlike commercial apple varieties that begin bearing fruit within four to six years, aport trees typically require eight to nine years before producing their first harvest. Despite the longer maturation period, the apple’s distinctive qualities and heritage value position it as a premium niche product.
“The main advantage of aport is its uniqueness. Unlike mass-produced varieties designed for volume and long storage, aport stands out for its vivid taste, rich aroma, and large fruit size. Our orchards are located above 850 meters above sea level, which affects the firmness of the pulp and depth of flavor. In Germany, we presented not only fresh apples but also processed products such as fruit pastilles and apple chips. We also produce aport-based juice, vinegar, and dried fruit,” said Roman Safarov, president of the Association.
According to QazTrade, participation in Grüne Woche confirmed strong export potential, particularly for processed aport products.
“The Almaty aport is registered as a geographical indication. This status confirms its unique characteristics shaped by the natural conditions of the Almaty foothills, special soils, clean water, and temperature fluctuations. The geographical indication protects the brand and allows it to be promoted as a premium product in international markets,” said QazTrade CEO Aitmuhammed Aldazharov.
Horticulture is increasingly viewed as a strategic growth area within Kazakhstan’s agro-industrial sector. According to Yerbol Taszhurekov, apple orchards in Kazakhstan now cover nearly 29,000 hectares, concentrated mainly in the southern regions of Almaty, Turkestan, Zhambyl, and Zhetisu. In the Almaty and Zhetisu regions alone, orchards span more than 2,400 hectares and include over 416,000 trees.
Kazakhstan is also working to revive the aport variety, which had previously faced near extinction. Under a targeted 2024-2028 program involving private investors and specialized nurseries, authorities aim to produce certified saplings and expand commercial cultivation. By 2027, plans call for planting at least 110 hectares of new aport orchards.
