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24 Jan 2025

Home, International Affairs, Kyrgyzstan International Affairs, Kyrgyzstan, Kyrgyzstan Features

Migrants from Kyrgyzstan Anticipate Tougher Conditions for Work in Russia

January 24, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

A majority of Kyrgyz citizens believe that working conditions for migrants in Russia will deteriorate significantly in the near future, according to a recent survey by the FOCUS Alliance of Euro-Asian Sociologists.

Survey Findings

The survey results paint a grim outlook for migrant workers from Kyrgyzstan:

61.5% of respondents believe that conditions for migrant workers in Russia will worsen significantly.
14.7% think the situation will remain the same.
10.7% are confident that despite challenges, migrants will adapt.
Only 4.4% are optimistic, expecting improved conditions for foreign workers.
Another 8.9% found it difficult to predict the future of migrant labor in Russia.

A similar sentiment was observed in Uzbekistan. According to the same survey:

35% of Uzbek respondents believe it will become impossible for migrants to find work in Russia.
28% believe the situation will remain stable.
22% are confident that migrant workers will overcome challenges.
6% expect conditions to improve.

The survey, which included 1,433 participants, used a random sampling method with a margin of error of 3%.

Stricter Migration Policies in Russia

Russia has tightened its migration policies in recent months, with the State Duma passing multiple bills aimed at increasing oversight of foreign nationals.

The crackdown on migration follows a terrorist attack at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall, which reignited debates around national security and the regulation of foreign labor. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that the interests of Russian citizens must take priority in drafting migration laws. He also stressed the importance of migrants adhering to local legislation and having knowledge of the Russian language.

These developments reflect a growing trend in Russia to limit migration and impose stricter conditions on foreign workers.

Kyrgyzstan’s Response

Despite the challenges, Kyrgyzstan remains committed to labor migration as a critical aspect of its economy. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Edil Baisalov reassured that the country will continue to export labor to Russia.

Russia is a key destination for Kyrgyz migrant workers, with remittances from workers abroad making up a significant portion of Kyrgyzstan’s GDP. However, with stricter migration laws and a shifting labor market, the ability of Kyrgyz workers to sustain their livelihoods in Russia may face serious obstacles.

The survey results highlight widespread pessimism among Kyrgyz and Uzbek citizens regarding the future of migrant work in Russia. Stricter migration policies and a focus on prioritizing Russian citizens are contributing to uncertainty for Central Asian migrant workers. While Kyrgyzstan continues to rely on labor migration to support its economy, adapting to the evolving conditions in Russia will require resilience and potentially new strategies to protect its migrant workforce.

24 Jan 2025

Home, Justice, Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan Home, Uzbekistan Justice

Uzbekistan May Reduce Prison Sentences for Inmates Who Read Books

January 24, 2025
By Sadokat Jalolova

Uzbekistan is considering a new initiative that would reduce prison sentences for inmates who engage in reading, as part of efforts to promote rehabilitation and personal development.

Proposal Details

The Milliy Tiklanish (National Revival) party has been advocating for this initiative for several years, inspired by similar practices in other countries. According to the party’s press service, a draft law has now been developed to bring the proposal to life.

Under the proposed legislation, prisoners who read one book from an approved list and pass an exam on its content could have their sentences reduced by three days. The program would allow inmates to read up to 10 books per year, potentially reducing their sentences by up to 30 days annually.

The reading list will be curated and managed by the Republican Center for Spirituality and Enlightenment, ensuring that the selected books align with the program’s goals of fostering intellectual and moral growth.

International Inspiration

The concept of reducing prison sentences through reading is not unique to Uzbekistan. Last year, Russian politician Vladislav Davankov proposed a similar initiative for inmates in pretrial detention centers and prisons. Davankov argued that reading programs could play a vital role in the rehabilitation and resocialization of prisoners.

Kazakhstan has already taken steps in this direction. In 2021, the country launched a pilot project in correctional facilities in the Karaganda region. Under this program, inmates read books from an approved list, retell the content to a commission, and write essays summarizing the material. Positive evaluations by the commission can lead to improved detention conditions or even early release.

Broader Implications

If implemented, the program in Uzbekistan could serve as a tool to encourage education, personal growth, and rehabilitation among inmates. By focusing on intellectual engagement, the initiative could help prisoners reintegrate into society upon release and reduce recidivism rates.

While the draft law is still in the development stage, it reflects Uzbekistan’s broader efforts to modernize its prison system and promote rehabilitation over punishment. If successful, the initiative could become a model for other countries in the region seeking to implement progressive approaches to criminal justice.

24 Jan 2025

Central Asia, Home, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan Business & Economy, Features, Kazakhstan Featurees

Potato Hunt: Astana Restricts Potato Sales Amid Price Surge

February 4, 2025
By Dmitry Pokidaev

Supermarkets in Astana, including the Small and EuroSpar chains, have introduced a restriction on the sale of potatoes, limiting purchases to no more than 5 kilograms per customer. The Astana Akimat’s Department of Investment and Entrepreneurship Development announced that the measure aims to prevent speculation. However, officials have not provided a timeline for when the restrictions might be lifted.

A Sharp Spike in Prices

The price of potatoes has surged sharply in Kazakhstan. According to the Bureau of National Statistics, this spike occurred within a single week, from January 14 to 21. The annualized price increase averaged 57.8% across the country, with some regions experiencing even steeper hikes. In Astana, the price of potatoes doubled – rising by 100% – with a kilogram costing between 400 and 500 KZT ($0.96).

The Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) attributes the price surge to speculation by unscrupulous middlemen. Deputy Minister Yerbol Taszhurekov clarified that the situation cannot be classified as “price collusion” but acknowledged significant price disparities between agricultural producers and retail outlets.

“This is the result of speculative activity. After the New Year, many vegetable storages and warehouses remained closed, leading to a reduced supply in the market. Resellers and speculators exploited this temporary shortage to raise prices,” Taszhurekov explained.

Tackling the Reseller Problem

In response, local governments (akimats) began releasing potatoes from government stabilization funds at significantly reduced prices—between 115 and 130 KZT ($0.25) per kilogram. These measures were implemented to counter speculative practices and stabilize prices until the new harvest.

The MOA reported that Kazakhstan currently has more than 62,000 tons of potatoes in reserve, excluding stocks in trade networks. These supplies are deemed sufficient to meet domestic demand until the next harvest.

In Astana, this intervention helped bring down prices in retail chains like Small and EuroSpar to 280 KZT ($0.54) per kilogram. However, a new issue arose: small retailers began purchasing potatoes in bulk from these supermarkets to resell them at higher prices. To address this, supermarkets imposed a restriction on potato sales, limiting purchases to 5 kilograms per customer.

“All necessary measures have been taken to ensure stable potato prices in Astana. There is no shortage in the city, and products are sufficiently stocked on retail shelves and in markets. Supplies are being replenished in a timely manner. However, to prevent bulk purchases by resellers for resale in small neighborhood stores, supermarkets in the Small and EuroSpar chains have implemented temporary purchase limits,” stated the Department of Investment and Entrepreneurship Development of Astana.

Collaboration Between Retail Chains and Farmers

The Ministry of Trade and Integration (MTI) also took steps to address the situation. Following discussions with representatives from major supermarket chains such as Magnum, Small, Anvar, and Dina, an agreement was reached for these retailers to directly purchase 1,500 tons of potatoes from farmers. The supermarkets will independently manage the transportation of these goods to ensure steady supply.

“Akimats in the regions must present their specific needs, including the required volumes, so that retail chains can promptly meet market demand. Additionally, there must be stricter monitoring of key markets and improved coordination between agricultural producers and retailers,” said Aizhan Bizhanova, Deputy Head of MTI.

The ministry also disclosed that since the beginning of the year, authorities have identified 49 instances of violations of the regulation limiting trade markups on potatoes – a socially important product – to no more than 15% of the purchase price.

Export Restrictions

To further stabilize the market, Kazakhstan implemented a six-month restriction on potato exports to non-Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries in early January. This decision was intended to ensure sufficient supply within the country and curb price volatility.

While temporary restrictions on potato sales in Astana aim to address speculative practices and stabilize prices, the government’s broader strategy includes improved supply chain management, tighter market oversight, and direct cooperation between farmers and retailers. These measures highlight the complex challenges in balancing market stability with ensuring affordability for consumers.

24 Jan 2025

Central Asia, Business & Economy, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan Business & Economy

Chinese Company to Develop Low-Altitude Technologies and Intelligent Manufacturing in Kazakhstan

January 24, 2025
By Sergey Kwan

Kazakh Invest, Kazakhstan’s national investment company, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s Polyking New Horizons Technology Industry Co. Ltd. The agreement focuses on collaboration in the emerging field of low-altitude economy and intelligent manufacturing.

As part of the partnership, the companies plan to establish an industrial park in Kazakhstan, which will integrate drone technologies, smart city solutions, and advanced manufacturing systems. The $200 million project is expected to create 1,000 new jobs, according to Kazakh Invest.

Expanding High-Tech Opportunities

The MoU also includes provisions for developing projects in the chemical industry and innovative technologies. These initiatives aim to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a hub for high-tech production and innovation in Central Asia.

Azamat Kozhanov, Managing Director of Kazakh Invest, highlighted the vast potential for low-altitude technologies in various sectors, including agriculture, energy, construction, and infrastructure management.

“The advanced technologies and expertise of Polyking will bring new momentum to the development of this field in Kazakhstan,” Kozhanov stated. He also noted the significant economic opportunity tied to this sector, adding: “By 2050, the global low-altitude economy market is expected to reach $8.8 trillion. Therefore, we are actively creating platforms to develop new industries and providing comprehensive support.”

Broader Trends in Low-Altitude Technology

Kazakhstan has already taken steps to integrate drone production into its economy. The Times of Central Asia recently reported on a $12 million project by Yesil Technology Company, a subsidiary of China’s Shaanxi Kaizhuo Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., to establish an industrial drone manufacturing facility in the country.

This collaboration underscores Kazakhstan’s strategic focus on becoming a leader in the low-altitude economy, a field that includes drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and other advanced technologies that operate at low altitudes.

The partnership between Kazakh Invest and Polyking New Horizons Technology marks another milestone in Kazakhstan’s push to diversify its economy through high-tech industries. The planned industrial park, along with complementary projects like drone manufacturing, positions Kazakhstan to capitalize on the growing global market for low-altitude technologies and intelligent manufacturing. If successfully implemented, these initiatives could transform the country into a regional leader in cutting-edge technology and innovation.

24 Jan 2025

Central Asia, Turkmenistan Home, Home, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Tajikistan Business Economy, Uzbekistan Home, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan Business & Economy, Business & Economy, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan Business & Economy, Tajikistan Home, Kyrgyzstan Business & Economy, Kazakhstan Business & Economy, Kyrgyzstan Home, Kazakhstan Home

Kazakhstan Leads Central Asia in Average Salaries

January 24, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

Kazakhstan continues to hold the top position in terms of average wages among Central Asian countries, according to a study conducted by analysts at Ranking.kz.

Wage Comparisons Across Central Asia

Data from the Interstate Statistical Committee of the CIS reveals that as of September 2024, Kazakhstan’s average nominal monthly salary stood at $817.20. This figure is nearly twice as high as in Uzbekistan ($437.80) and Kyrgyzstan ($411.20). Tajikistan trails significantly behind, with an average salary of just $242.80 – 3.4 times lower than Kazakhstan’s.

Notably, the wage gap between Kazakhstan and Tajikistan would have been even greater if not for a significant increase in Tajik wages. Over the past year, nominal salaries in Tajikistan rose by 24.9%, while real wages increased by 21.1% – the highest growth rate in the region. In comparison, wage growth in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan was more moderate. Data on salaries in Turkmenistan remains unavailable as the country has not updated its wage statistics since 2023.

Minimum Wage Comparison

Kazakhstan also leads the region in terms of minimum wages. In 2024, the minimum wage in Kazakhstan is 85,000 KZT ($181.10). By contrast:

In Uzbekistan, the minimum wage is $89.40.
In Tajikistan, it is $54.90.
In Kyrgyzstan, it is just $28.30.

In Turkmenistan, the official minimum wage is reported as $402.90, based on the fixed exchange rate of 3.5 TMT per dollar. However, due to the country’s reliance on a “black market” exchange rate (approximately 19 TMT per dollar), the actual minimum wage is estimated to be much lower, around $74.20.

Sectoral Analysis

When analyzing nominal salaries by economic sector, the highest wages in the region are found in finance and insurance. In Kazakhstan, the average salary in this sector exceeds $1,700 – three times higher than in Tajikistan ($561.90). Workers in Kazakhstan’s mining industry also enjoy high incomes.

In Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, the financial sector and IT industry offer the highest salaries. Meanwhile, in Tajikistan, relatively high wages are reported in the manufacturing and service sectors.

Inflation and Its Impact

Inflation remains a key factor affecting the real purchasing power of wages across Central Asia. According to the CIS Interstate Statistical Committee, the most significant price increases in 2024 occurred in the economically developed countries of the region – Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan: Inflation reached 7.7% in October 2024.
Kazakhstan: Inflation stood at 6.6%.
Kyrgyzstan: Inflation was lower at 4.2%.
Tajikistan: The region’s lowest inflation rate was recorded at 3.2%.

These inflation rates directly influence the population’s purchasing power, even in countries with higher nominal salaries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Kazakhstan’s leadership in wages and minimum income underscores its position as the most economically advanced country in Central Asia. However, inflation and significant disparities in income distribution between sectors and regions remain challenges. While countries like Tajikistan are showing progress in wage growth, the overall gap in earnings between Central Asian nations continues to highlight economic inequalities within the region.

24 Jan 2025

Central Asia, Local Politics, Kyrgyzstan, Kyrgyzstan Local Politics

Kyrgyzstan to Ban Frog Imports to Combat Drug Trafficking

February 18, 2025
By Vagit Ismailov

On January 23, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament discussed amendments to the law on combating the illicit trafficking of narcotics and psychotropic substances. Among the proposed changes is a ban on the import of frogs and toads, which can contain psychoactive substances.

Psychoactive Risks of Amphibians

During the parliamentary session, MP Iskhak Masaliyev questioned the use of the term “living organisms” in the text of the bill and asked for clarification. Deputy Health Minister Kaarmanbek Baidavletov explained that certain species of toads, whose skin and venom have narcotic effects, are prevalent in some countries. The amendment aims to prevent the import of such amphibians into Kyrgyzstan.

Nurbek Abdiyev, Deputy Head of the Interior Ministry, elaborated that the term “living organisms” encompasses both plants and animals, including dried toads that are used as sources of banned substances.

Unusual Laws and Global Context

The bill’s sponsor, Meder Aliyev, referenced examples of foreign legislation to highlight the necessity of such laws, even if they may seem unusual.

“For instance, in one U.S. state, teenagers are forbidden to kiss frogs because some frogs secrete psychoactive substances,” Aliyev said.

While MP Iskhak Masaliyev supported the bill, he criticized its wording. “It turns out that now our young people are forbidden to kiss frogs! I’m not against this initiative, but it should have been analyzed in more detail when drafting. A frog is not just a living organism – it is an animal, an amphibian,” he said.

The Danger of 5-MeO-DMT

Some amphibians, such as the Bufo alvarius toad, secrete the psychoactive substance 5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine). This powerful alkaloid, belonging to the class of tryptamines, can cause intense hallucinations, euphoria, and a sensation of warmth when its vapors are inhaled. The compound is known for its use in shamanic rituals in South America and poses risks of misuse in other contexts.

Legislative Context

The proposed amendment aims to address concerns about the potential for these amphibians, or their derivatives, to be trafficked for illegal drug use. By banning their import, Kyrgyzstan seeks to prevent the introduction of new psychoactive substances into the country, reinforcing its broader fight against drug trafficking.

The debate over the bill underscores Kyrgyzstan’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its drug policies while also illustrating the challenges of crafting precise legislative language. While some aspects of the law may seem peculiar, the government views it as a necessary step to curb the risks posed by psychoactive substances derived from amphibians.