ASTANA, October 16: Kazakhstan’s strong grain production and expanding export capacity underscore the country’s growing role in regional food security, with Uzbekistan accounting for 51% of its wheat exports, equivalent to 4.2 million tonnes.Under the leadership of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan continues to focus on agricultural development, domestic food production and strengthening trade links with regional partners. The country’s substantial grain output provides a foundation for meeting domestic requirements while supplying key international markets.
Uzbekistan is Kazakhstan’s largest wheat export destination, followed by Tajikistan, which receives 16% of exports, or 1.3 million tonnes. Azerbaijan accounts for 8%, equivalent to 652,000 tonnes, while Afghanistan receives 6% (496,300 tonnes) and Italy 5% (418,700 tonnes). Algeria and Kyrgyzstan are also among Kazakhstan’s wheat export markets.Kazakhstan harvests an average of 18 million tonnes of grain annually, while domestic consumption and processing account for nearly 9.5 million tonnes. This production base enables the country to meet domestic demand while maintaining substantial export volumes, contributing to regional food supply chains.The country’s flour industry further strengthens its agricultural value chain, with flour production reported at approximately twice the level of domestic consumption. This supports the baking sector through access to locally produced raw materials. From January to August 2026, Kazakhstan produced 325,500 tonnes of bread.Kazakhstan’s bakeries have an annual production capacity of 502,000 tonnes, although current utilization stands at 35.5%. Producers are diversifying their offerings to respond to consumer demand, including bakery products and flour-based confectionery with varying shelf lives.Government support measures are also aimed at encouraging investment and expanding the sector. Under the 2021–2030 Concept for the Development of the Agro-Industrial Complex, enterprises increasing bakery or confectionery production beyond annual capacities of 2,000 tonnes are eligible for reimbursement of 25% of investment costs.
Flour producers also benefit from a value-added tax incentive under Article 490 of the Tax Code, providing an 80% reduction, according to the reported measures.World Bread Day, observed on October 16, highlights the importance of bread, agriculture and food production. Established in 2006 at the initiative of the International Union of Bakers and Confectioners, the occasion also coincides with the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945.Earlier reports indicated that Kazakhstan’s grain harvest had reached 23 million tonnes, while grain rail shipments hit a record 1.45 million tonnes in September, reflecting the scale of the country’s agricultural production and grain transportation network.Kazakhstan’s grain sector, export markets and agricultural support measures remain important components of its economic development and regional trade cooperation.
