Turkmenistan is ramping up its investments in the food processing sector, with two prominent companies announcing major expansions in the dairy and coffee industries. The developments were unveiled during an exhibition marking the 17th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan.
Erkin Agro Launches Dairy Expansion with European Cattle
Erkin Agro, a member of the Union, announced plans to construct a large-scale milk processing plant and associated livestock farms. Deputy Director General Begench Chariev shared the news at the exhibition.
The company is finalizing its business plan and preparing to procure dairy cattle from Europe. Representatives will soon travel to Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands to negotiate with suppliers. The initial phase involves importing 300 to 400 cows, with a total of 2,000 head planned. The first shipment is expected by the end of spring, with a second to follow in the fall.
The project emphasizes environmental sustainability. Erkin Agro is adopting organic farming practices and minimizing the use of chemicals, including fertilizers and pesticides. These efforts aim to ensure not only high-quality dairy products but also ecologically responsible livestock operations.
NesilCoffee Ventures into Freeze-Dried Coffee
Meanwhile, entrepreneur Tedjenmurat Bayramdurdyev, owner of NesilCoffee, announced the company’s entry into premium coffee production with the launch of a freeze-dried coffee line. The announcement was made during the same exhibition, according to Business Turkmenistan.
Freeze-dried coffee, considered a high-end product, is made through lyophilization, a process in which frozen coffee is vacuum-dried to preserve its flavor, aroma, and nutrients. This method distinguishes it from standard instant coffee, which is produced via spray drying.
The new production facility is located in Ak-Bugday etrap, Ahal province. Outfitted with Italian and German equipment, the plant sources coffee beans from Europe, Colombia, Guatemala, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. NesilCoffee manages its own Arabica–Robusta blend ratios and monitors quality through an in-house laboratory.
Currently, the company produces five varieties of whole-bean coffee (Espresso, Intenso, Classic, La Crema, Special) and four types of instant coffee (Caramel Latte, Vanilla Latte, Coffee Latte, and Cappuccino). The production process adheres to ISO 9001, ISO 22000, and Halal standards. The facility has an annual production capacity of 4,000 tons, with plans to scale up to 10,000 tons.
Growing Food Industry
Since launching one of Central Asia’s largest coffee plants in 2024, NesilCoffee has secured a leading position in the domestic market and is now pursuing export opportunities.
These developments reflect a broader national strategy to diversify and strengthen Turkmenistan’s food sector. With investments in livestock and high-quality food processing, companies like Erkin Agro and NesilCoffee are positioning Turkmen business for sustainable, internationally competitive growth.
