Jizzakh-based automaker ADM Group has expanded into intensive horticulture in the Aral Sea region, with a UZS 55 billion project being implemented in an area with a challenging climate and predominantly saline soils. The 330-hectare orchard has created 300 jobs for residents, providing employment opportunities in nearby communities, according to the presidential press service.
To date, 250,000 black plum seedlings selected in the United States have been planted across 69 hectares. The variety is considered well suited to saline soils and begins producing fruit within two years. Each tree can yield up to 50–60 kilograms of fruit, while its large size and easily removable pits make it suitable for processing.
To make efficient use of the land and increase returns, a high-yield tomato variety has been planted between the trees, with average yields expected to reach 40–45 tonnes per hectare.
Modern technologies introduced at the orchard are helping to improve water-use efficiency. The site uses closed drainage and drip irrigation systems, reducing water consumption from around 12,000 litres per hectare under conventional irrigation to about 5,000 litres. This allows the project to save up to 60% of water.
Water is delivered directly to the trees’ root systems, helping to reduce unnecessary water use. Up to 90% of the fertilizers applied through the irrigation system are absorbed by the plants. Even moisture levels can also help improve yields. The fully automated system allows a single operator to manage hundreds of hectares.
The development of the orchard in challenging climatic conditions was described as an example of entrepreneurs’ efforts to introduce new approaches and technologies.
The site is also equipped with facilities for drying and processing fruit immediately after harvest, increasing the value of the finished products.
The project includes a plan for marketing the produce, with export agreements already signed with partners in China, the Republic of Korea and Russia.
The experience gained in Kegayli is planned to be expanded across Karakalpakstan, with the region aiming to increase the area under intensive orchards to 10,000 hectares and create 40,000 permanent and seasonal jobs.
The president also spoke with farmers, who shared their views on the ongoing reforms and expressed appreciation for the continued attention to Karakalpakstan.
