Published
04/28/2026, 13:59Kyrgyzstan maintains a high level of self-sufficiency in milk and dairy products—over 130% when imports are taken into account. However, domestic processors note increasing pressure from foreign suppliers and difficulties in the domestic sales market.
According to industry data, exports of dairy products from Kyrgyzstan exceeded 31,000 tonnes in 2025. The main export destinations are EAEU countries, including Kazakhstan and Russia. The export mix comprises butter, cheese, ice cream, milk powder and traditional dairy drinks.
Despite these export figures, processors report difficulties within the country. On 25 May 2026, Aibek Mamyraliev, Chairman of the Antimonopoly Regulation Service, undertook a working visit to dairy processing plants in the Chui Region.
During the visit, industry representatives reported that they were unable to compete with imported products. Key problems include inconsistent raw material quality, dependence on purchase prices, logistical difficulties and limited sales channels. According to them, pressure from imported goods is intensifying against a backdrop of price competition, where domestic producers often lose out on cost.
Particular attention was paid to the public procurement system. Despite the current Cabinet of Ministers’ decree stipulating procurement from domestic producers according to an approved list, in practice companies continue to participate in tenders. In such tenders, priority is often given to the lowest price, which, according to producers, does not reflect the actual cost price and affects the sector’s sustainability.
Following the meeting, producers proposed setting a guaranteed procurement quota for domestic dairy products at 20–30% to support the local market.
The Antimonopoly Service stated that it would conduct a further investigation into the situation and collect data on all processing enterprises in the country. Based on the results of the analysis, proposals will be prepared for consideration by the relevant state bodies.
