World Monitor Magazine WM_November_2019_web | Page 22

EXPERT OPINION
Kazakhstan builds up
competitive potential
On the eve of the ninth annual Central Asian Trade Forum, which
was held on November 12-13, 2019 in Shymkent, the World Monitor
Magazine met with one of the key speakers of the upcoming forum,
Cornelis (Kees) Coleman, coordinator of industry consultants for the
small and medium business support group of the European Bank for
Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The theme of this year's
forum is ‘innovative and investment approaches in the fruit and
vegetable sector’. Mr. Coleman shared his opinion on the development
potential of the agricultural market of Kazakhstan.
Cornelis (Kees) Coleman,
coordinator of industry
consultants for the
small and medium
business support group
of the European Bank
for Reconstruction and
Development (EBRD)
20
world monitor
What is the potential for the
development of the agricultural market
– the necessary measures and the main
difficulties?
The variety of climatic zones and the
availability of fertile soils provide
Kazakhstan with great opportunities for
the development of the agricultural sector.
In addition, there is the potential to expand
its presence in the markets of Russia and
China. However, it is important to learn
how to capitalize on the opportunities
available. The main task for Kazakhstan is
the accumulation of knowledge at all levels
of the agricultural chain, starting with
primary agricultural production. Currently,
farms are characterized by a lack of modern
technical skills, and raising the level of
knowledge of farmers and employees is
crucial for the development of the industry.
In the first place, I would advise, in addition
to using modern equipment, to focus also
on advanced training of specialists and the
transfer of knowledge.
availability of suitable soil, experienced
and knowledgeable farmers are also
needed. Today in the field of organic
agriculture there is an acute shortage of
personnel. On the other hand, the market
for organic products is growing.
Diversification of production capacities
and infrastructure – what about the
expansion of production, improving
the quality of sown and pasture lands,
the use of technologies to reduce
dependence on weather conditions and
the impact of global warming (climate
change)?
Positioning of Kazakhstan as a
producer of high-quality organic
products – what are the pros and cons? Global warming is generally a problem
for agriculture due to the expectation of
more severe extreme weather conditions.
The consideration of this factor in modern
agricultural production can increase
productivity and product quality. In order
to prevent the depletion of mineral and
nutrients in soils, an effective crop rotation
system is important. Data collection using
modern high-tech solutions (satellites,
drones) in combination with smart analysis
can increase the efficiency and stability of
agricultural production.
High-quality organic farming is itself
a complex process. In addition to the What measures are being taken to
develop the value chain, transparent