The situation with onions makes Kazakhstani farmers cry

Farmers in Kazakhstan are experiencing significant losses due to a surplus of onions, caused by export restrictions and logistical challenges at the border, as well as policies by the Ministry of Agriculture, Trade and Integration. Despite efforts to alleviate the situation, including expedited permitting procedures and contracts for exporting onions to several countries, farmers are left with 130 thousand tons of unsold onions as of April 3. The import of early-ripening onions from Tajikistan is expected to worsen the situation. Additionally, the lack of market regulation and control over supermarket profits means that consumers will not benefit from lower prices, and the absence of effective insurance mechanisms for farmers, with only 1 percent of onion producers insuring their products, highlights the state's failure to protect local farmers and establish effective insurance systems. This has led to significant losses and produce waste, with only intermediaries benefiting from the current situation.