Analysts reveal discrepancy between export indicators of fruits and vegetables from Uzbekistan to Kyrgyzstan

Analysts of the East-fruit examined figures from statistical agencies of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.

According to the State Statistics Committee of Uzbekistan, over the 9 months of 2019, the volume of exports of fruits and vegetables in physical terms amounted to more than 1,031.7 thousand tons, and in value terms – $959.3 million (growth rate compared to the same period in 2018 amounted to 116.6% and 146.4%, respectively).

Over 612,800 tons of vegetables worth $449.2 million, as well as 418,900 tons of fruits and berries worth $510.1 were exported. In value terms, compared with the same period last year, export growth rates, respectively, amounted to 189.5% and 122.0%. The fruits and berries category included directly fruits and berries (259,800 tons or $332.1 million), as well as grapes (126,800 tons or $158.1 million), melons and watermelons (25,800 tons or $11.3 million), peanuts (6,600 tons or $8.7 million).

The State Statistics Committee of Uzbekistan also notes changes in the geographical distribution of exports of fruits and vegetables. Reportedly, neighboring Kyrgyzstan became a leader in the import of fruits and vegetables from Uzbekistan for the first time. In the 9 months of 2019, almost 30% of the total fruit and vegetable exports (in value terms) was made to the Kyrgyz Republic. It amounts to $286.3 million.

The leader in import of fruits and vegetables from Uzbekistan over the past 5 years – Kazakhstan retreated to second place. Exports to the neighboring republic accounted for $222.5 million (23.2% of the total export).

Russia’s share in the export of fruits and vegetables from Uzbekistan continues to decline, despite the creation of a “green corridor” for the supply.

Unfortunately, the website of the State Statistics Committee of the Kyrgyz Republic is not yet available for 9 months of 2019. But according to the results for January-August 2019, Uzbekistan imported fruits and nuts for $19.9 million and vegetables – for $6.2 million, which together gives $26.1 million.

According to the State Statistics Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the same period (8 months of this year), deliveries of fruits and vegetables to Kyrgyzstan amounted to $267.5 million, which is 10 times the amount announced by the State Statistics Committee of Kyrgyzstan.