Food Security - The Times Of Central Asia

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From Malnutrition to Water Scarcity: UN Identifies Key Threats to Food Security in Tajikistan

A new United Nations report titled Food Security and Nutrition Outlook for Europe and Central Asia 2024 has outlined the major challenges facing Tajikistan in nutrition, public health, and sustainable agriculture. The report identifies chronic malnutrition, rising childhood obesity, and vulnerability to climate change as the principal threats to the country’s food system. According to the findings, Tajikistan continues to face a dual burden: while undernutrition remains a persistent issue, obesity is on the rise, particularly among children. In 2022, nearly one in seven Tajik children under five (13.1%) suffered from stunting due to chronic malnutrition, while 9.9% were affected by wasting, well above the global target of 3%. At the same time, childhood obesity has seen a dramatic increase, with the proportion of overweight children rising from 4.6% in 2000 to 21% in 2022. Efforts to address these issues are further complicated by Tajikistan’s climate vulnerability and water management challenges. Agriculture, a cornerstone of the national economy and food supply, is particularly susceptible to shifting weather patterns. Although the government is implementing reforms, including the adoption of a new Water Code in 2020 and a watershed management system planned for completion by 2026, water scarcity remains a critical concern. Water user associations are playing a growing role in this transformation. The report also highlights gender disparities in the agricultural workforce. Women represent a significant share of those employed in agriculture, yet many work informally, without pay or legal protections. The UN urges action to ensure women have equitable access to land, resources, and decision-making processes. Beyond Tajikistan, the wider Europe and Central Asia region is not immune to food insecurity. As of 2023, 107 million people, 11.5% of the population, faced moderate or severe food insecurity, with 24.5 million in acute need. In Central Asia, 2.3 million people, around 3% of the region’s population, do not meet minimum daily energy requirements. The crisis is exacerbated by economic instability, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine. While child malnutrition and anemia in women have declined across the region, adult obesity is increasing and now exceeds 20%. Meanwhile, 7.1% of children under five are overweight, and nearly 64.3 million people (6.9%) cannot afford a nutritious diet, an enduring challenge despite comparatively better regional indicators than global averages. The UN emphasizes the vital role of water in securing the region’s food future. Rising demand for meat and dairy products is straining already scarce water resources. Outdated infrastructure, pollution, data gaps, and insufficient regional cooperation are all significant barriers to water security. To address these challenges, the report calls for investment in water-saving technologies, reuse strategies, and reduced agricultural water footprints. Achieving long-term sustainability, the UN argues, requires an integrated approach, one that links nutrition, climate adaptation, gender equality, and modern water governance. The report was developed with the input of seven UN agencies, including FAO, UNICEF, UNDP, WHO, and WMO. International partners have expressed readiness to support Tajikistan in identifying and implementing durable, systemic solutions.

Climate Emergency Aral Sea Access to Clean Water Food Security Climate Change

Climate Change – A Catalyst for Poverty and Environmental Degradation in Central Asia

Climate change encapsulates the gradual yet profound shifts in temperature and weather patterns over extended periods. While these changes can arise naturally from various phenomena — such as fluctuations in solar energy or significant volcanic eruptions — the advent of the industrial age in the 1800s marked a pivotal point where human influence became the predominant force driving climate change. This influence stems chiefly from burning fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas. The combustion of these fuels releases vast quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, creating a thick layer that envelops the Earth and traps heat from the sun, resulting in a steady rise in global temperatures. Carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) are the most significant greenhouse gases contributing to this crisis. Carbon dioxide predominantly emerges from driving gasoline-powered vehicles and burning coal for heating. Additionally, the widespread practices of deforestation and land conversion continue to elevate carbon dioxide levels. Methane, meanwhile, is primarily produced through agricultural practices and the extraction processes associated with the oil and gas industries. The sectors that bear the heaviest burden in terms of greenhouse gas emissions include energy production, industrial processes, transportation, building operations, agriculture, and land use changes. The ramifications of this unfolding climate crisis are dire, especially for the world’s most vulnerable populations, particularly those residing in poverty. According to alarming insights from the World Bank, the 74 countries with the lowest income levels contribute a mere one-tenth of global greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, ironically, these nations are poised to endure the harshest repercussions of climate change. Over the past ten years, they have experienced an astounding surge in natural disasters, facing approximately eight times the frequency of such events compared to the 1980s. The effects on the lives of vulnerable populations are profound and far-reaching. Many face severe health challenges, including the prevalence of illnesses exacerbated by inadequate healthcare access. Erratic water supply creates a critical situation, often resulting in polluted drinking water that can lead to waterborne diseases. Additionally, the standard of education for these communities tends to be alarmingly poor, limiting future opportunities for young individuals. Many are forced to relocate as refugees, fleeing conflict and instability, which further complicates their lives. Moreover, those who find employment often encounter hazardous working conditions that put their safety and well-being at significant risk. Climate change presents profound security challenges for Central Asia, a region grappling with the dual threats of environmental shifts and social vulnerabilities. The interplay of climate change with existing fragility intensifies the risks to peace, stability, and security across the globe. This convergence will exacerbate human insecurity and escalate socio-economic and political instability. As a result of these changing climatic conditions, critical resources such as water, food, and energy face increasing threats. Countries already characterized by vulnerability — those grappling with conflict or instability — are among the most likely to experience detrimental effects. For instance, reports indicate severe drought conditions have led to a 30-40% decrease in agricultural production in some Central Asian...

Agriculture Legislation Inflation Food Security FAO Food

High Food Costs and Growing Waistlines: Kazakhstan’s Struggle with Rising Obesity

More than half of Kazakhstan’s population is overweight or obese, even as food prices in the country continue to climb. Deputy Prime Minister Serik Jumangarin recently highlighted that nearly 50% of consumer spending is allocated to food and beverages. In response, members of the Senate and the upper house of parliament are advocating for stricter regulations on food quality. Aniko Nemeth, an expert on food safety and nutrition at the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) regional office for Europe and Central Asia, pointed out the country’s obesity crisis during a Senate hearing on food security. Drawing from data from the Kazakh Academy of Nutrition, she noted that 55.5% of women and 49.2% of men in Kazakhstan are overweight or obese. At the same time, 5.6% of the population suffers from malnutrition. The paradox highlights a larger issue: the rising cost of a healthy diet. According to Nemeth, the price has increased by at least 8% over the last eight years. Urban residents are more affected than rural residents who can supplement their diets with homegrown produce. Deputy Prime Minister Jumangarin acknowledged that food prices are a major burden for the population. He outlined measures to address the issue, including constructing 92 modern fruit and vegetable storage facilities by the end of next year. With a capacity of 700,000 tons, these facilities aim to stabilize seasonal prices. Additionally, subsidies for seeds will be increased to support farmers, focusing on reducing dependency on foreign hybrids. Jumangarin also addressed the dependence on imported meat, which drives up costs. He announced plans for a commercial livestock farming project in the Turkestan region, modeled on Australia’s practices. Expected to launch in 2025, the initiative aims to lower domestic meat prices and increase sausage production. Furthermore, Kazakhstan is set to become self-sufficient in poultry production and may even begin exporting chicken meat within a few years. Kazakhstan’s cheese production currently meets only 57% of domestic demand. New production projects are underway to bridge the gap, including partnerships with global leaders like French-owned Lactalis, the world's largest dairy products group. Jumangarin revealed plans for a facility in the Akmola region and another in Kostanay to produce 2,000 tons of cheese annually. These efforts coincide with an anticipated surplus in milk production from newly established dairy farms. Despite these efforts to make food more affordable, senators believe legislative action is needed to address the obesity epidemic. Arman Utegulov, representing the agricultural ministry of Kazakhstan, proposed a law to regulate genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and foods treated with pesticides and antibiotics. He also called for stricter oversight of laboratories and trade centers to ensure food quality. “Excessive hormones in animal feed lead to chronic diseases,” Karimovich warned. He suggested amendments to existing legislation and even the potential return of veterinary laboratories to state control to tackle these issues. Kazakhstan faces a dual challenge: ensuring food affordability and combating rising obesity rates. While government initiatives aim to support domestic agriculture and stabilize food prices, balancing quality and cost remains critical....

Food industry Agriculture Food Security Regional integration Regional Security

Central Asia Prioritizes Food Security Amid Shared Challenges

Food security remains a top priority for Central Asian nations, yet they face shared challenges that threaten regional stability. Deteriorating water resources, climate change, reliance on external food markets, and geopolitical pressures have intensified the need for regional cooperation in addressing these issues. Bilateral and Regional Efforts Talks between the presidents of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, on August 8 underscored the importance of collaboration. The two leaders witnessed the signing of an agricultural cooperation agreement between their respective ministries. This followed Tokayev’s November 2022 visit to Tashkent, which was particularly productive in advancing food security. Agreements included joint production of mineral fertilizers and a bilateral cooperation program worth $1.3 billion aimed at boosting mutual trade and developing agricultural projects. Trade within Central Asia has grown significantly, with Uzbekistan’s trade volume with its neighbors nearly doubling between 2017 and 2019. Kazakhstan, the region’s leading grain supplier, plays a central role: • Uzbekistan accounts for 60% of Kazakhstan’s grain exports. • Tajikistan consumes 18%. • Kyrgyzstan takes 14%. • Turkmenistan absorbs 6%. Despite this growth, experts highlight the untapped potential for expanding trade and cooperation in agriculture. Common Challenges Food security challenges are compounded by shared threats, including demographic growth and dwindling water resources. The region’s population has reached 75.5 million, while irrigated land per capita has decreased by more than 25% over the past 15 years. Water availability in the Syr Darya and Amu Darya river basins—crucial for irrigating 10 million hectares - faces a projected 15% decline. This is exacerbated by the alarming retreat of glaciers that feed these rivers, jeopardizing long-term agricultural sustainability. The Need for Regional Solutions While each Central Asian country primarily relies on its resources to address food security, the interconnected nature of these challenges calls for a collective approach. Enhanced regional cooperation is essential to develop resilient agricultural systems, manage water resources effectively, and ensure sustainable growth in food production.

reduce poverty Food Security International Cooperation Sustainable Development

Uzbekistan Joins Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty

The Republic of Uzbekistan has officially become a member of the Global Alliance to Combat Hunger and Poverty, marking a significant step toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and enhancing global efforts to improve food security. This decision reflects Uzbekistan’s commitment to addressing pressing challenges related to hunger, poverty, and inequality on a global scale. By joining the alliance, the country gains access to valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange, international investment, and collaboration on joint programs with other nations and organizations. To date, over 100 countries have joined this initiative. Earlier, on October 9, the United States announced the delivery of 131 tons of food aid to Uzbekistan through USAID. The package, valued at over $435,000, includes vegetables and legumes intended to support more than 33,000 people across 145 facilities, including tuberculosis centers, orphanages, and psychiatric institutions. “At USAID, we collaborate with our partners to deliver life-saving food assistance to the most vulnerable communities in Uzbekistan. By addressing malnutrition and ensuring access to adequate, safe, and nutritious food, we empower individuals to lead healthy, productive lives and build a more stable and resilient world for everyone,” said Anjali Kaur, deputy assistant administrator of USAID’s Bureau for Asia.

Food industry International trade Agricultural Export Export Food Security Agriculture China Turkey

Turkey Ready to Buy Kazakh Meat at Twice the Price Offered by China

Kazakhstan's Ministry of Agriculture is actively working to open the Turkish market to Kazakh meat exports. Deputy Minister Amangaly Berdalin reported that Turkish partners are willing to pay twice as much for Kazakh beef as China. The Ministry of Agriculture has previously pursued access to the Chinese market for Kazakh livestock products. In February, Beijing lifted restrictions on Kazakh livestock imports, potentially enabling Kazakhstan’s southeastern regions to resume exports of frozen beef and pork to China. However, significant export volumes to China have yet to materialize. Maksut Baktibayev, head of the Meat Union of Kazakhstan, explained that the agreement between the countries only allows exports from four meat processing plants in Kazakhstan, with a combined capacity of 8,000 tons of frozen beef. According to Berdalin, Kazakh producers are not utilizing even this limited capacity due to uncompetitive pricing. Chinese buyers offer $5.5 per kilogram of Kazakh beef, which is comparable to prices in Kazakhstan’s domestic market, ranging from 2,700 to 3,000 tenge ($5.4 to $6.1) per kilogram. Given these figures, transporting Kazakh meat to China is economically unviable for producers. In contrast, Turkey is prepared to pay nearly double, or $11 per kilogram, for Kazakh beef. "Our ministry’s objective is to open as many markets as possible for our producers, particularly those offering attractive prices,” Berdalin stated at the Vet Astana 2024 International Exhibition on Feed and Veterinary in Astana. “That is why our inspectors are actively collaborating with Turkish officials to understand their export requirements.” Berdalin noted that while specific export volumes of Kazakh beef to Turkey are not yet determined, there is optimism following a recent diplomatic visit. In August, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Agriculture Aidarbek Saparov visited Ankara, where business representatives from both countries signed contracts to supply Kazakh meat to Turkey, valued at $80 million over the coming years, contingent on Kazakhstan’s successful completion of required veterinary and epidemiological procedures. The Turkish market has historically been closed to most Kazakh livestock products due to restrictions related to animal diseases, with some bans in place for approximately 20 years. Turkish authorities lifted these restrictions in June 2024. Kazakh producers are now navigating an extensive certification process to gain market access. Some required tests must be conducted in third countries, prompting Kazakhstan to rebuild its own laboratory capabilities. Berdalin shared that the Kazakh government has allocated 3.8 billion tenge ($7.7 million) this year to support veterinary laboratories. "To export to a country, we must meet all its import requirements. For instance, to export our honey, we need to conduct 43 specific tests. Currently, we handle 20 in-house, but the remaining 23 are outsourced to laboratories in Latvia and Georgia,” Berdalin explained. In addition to Turkey, the Ministry of Agriculture is working to open European markets for Kazakh meat. Last year, Kazakhstan exported over 53,000 tons of meat and meat products valued at $153 million. Poultry was the largest export category, at nearly 32,000 tons, followed by beef at 15,800 tons. Primary export destinations included Uzbekistan, the UAE, Kyrgyzstan, Iran,...