In his opinion, organic crops currently occupy only about 1% of all sown areas in the country, despite widespread estimates reaching 5-10%.
Akimaliev emphasized that organic production implies a complete exclusion of pesticides, chemicals, antibiotics, hormones, and other synthetic substances, which creates significant difficulties in the context of mass trade.
To promote organic farming, it is essential to create suitable conditions for farmers, such as preferential loans, access to irrigation water, mineral fertilizers, and necessary equipment.
“Only with comprehensive support can sustainable development in organic production be achieved,” the scientist noted.
He also dispelled the myth that organic and mineral fertilizers are incompatible. “The mineral fertilizers produced in our country are natural products. Nitrogen is taken from the air, phosphorus from deposits, and potassium from reserves in Russia and Belarus. When using organic fertilizers, the dose of minerals should be reduced by half. For example, instead of 120 kg of nitrogen per hectare, 60 kg is now recommended, and for phosphorus, 90 kg instead of 180,” the academician explained.
Long-term scientific research has shown that the best results in increasing yield are achieved with a combination of organic and mineral fertilizers.
“They do not oppose each other but complement each other. A complete rejection of mineral fertilizers in favor of organic can lead to a decrease in yield and deterioration of soil fertility,” Akimaliev added.
He also noted that the country's need for mineral fertilizers is 310 thousand tons per year, but currently only about 100 thousand tons are used.
The academician urged farmers and organic product producers to consider these recommendations to increase yield and ensure the country's food security.
