The transition to organic agriculture requires not only time but also serious changes in mindset and professional training, rather than just declarations of urgent deadlines. In an interview with VB.KG, Dinara Chorobekova, a senior lecturer at the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection at KNAU and a graduate student, revealed the existing barriers and real pathways for the development of organic agriculture in Kyrgyzstan.
The expert notes that the greening of the agricultural sector aligns well with global trends and the natural capabilities of the country. However, the implementation of full organic practices within the next 5–6 years appears to be an extremely challenging task. One of the main difficulties is the farmers' lack of awareness.
“Organic agriculture is not just a refusal of chemicals; it is a whole system that includes proper crop rotation, the use of green manures, biological preparations, and technologies that preserve the soil. Without a deep understanding of these processes, the transition may lead not to increased income but to reduced yields and financial losses,” emphasizes Chorobekova.
Additional challenges arise due to the lack of a developed monitoring and certification system. To obtain legitimate product status, constant control is required at all stages—from soil condition to transportation conditions. In Kyrgyzstan, such infrastructure has not yet been established, creating risks of distrust from foreign markets. Without reliable certification, exporting will become difficult.
Biological factors must also be considered: restoring soil fertility requires significant time. Decades of intensive pesticide use have depleted the land.
“For the natural restoration of macro- and microelements—nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, as well as beneficial microflora—7 to 15 years are needed, provided that scientifically grounded crop rotation is followed. A sudden refusal of synthetic fertilizers without prior preparation can lead to a significant decrease in yields, especially in the first years of transition,” warns the expert.
Practical risks also raise serious concerns. In a changing climate, pests can cause significant damage to crops, depriving farmers of income. In such a situation, there is a likelihood that producers may start unofficially using chemicals, undermining the very idea of the country’s ecological brand.
Dinara Chorobekova emphasizes that the transition to organic farming is a process that requires time:
“It is not a 'button' that can be pressed by 2030. It is a long-term process that begins with changing the mindset and professional training of farmers.”
For the successful implementation of this transition, the following are necessary:
Creation of educational programs and demonstration plots;
Government subsidies for the transitional period;
Development of production of affordable organic fertilizers;
Systematic consulting support for agronomists.
Only after establishing a solid foundation can we talk about stricter deadlines. Organic agriculture is a long-term goal capable of enhancing ecological safety and export potential in Kyrgyzstan, but success is possible only with a balanced policy and scientific support.
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