During the first reading of the bill aimed at promoting the development of industrial cultivation of medicinal plants, the Jogorku Kenesh focused on this issue. According to the document reviewed by journalists from VB.KG, it proposes a legal framework for transitioning from the collection of wild herbs in the mountains to the establishment of specialized agricultural plantations. Experts view this initiative as a strategic victory for Kyrgyzstan in the field of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Currently, the country remains one of the key suppliers of wild raw materials. However, uncontrolled harvesting of herbs in the ecosystems of the Tian Shan leads to the depletion of rare species, deterioration of pasture conditions, and destruction of soil cover. Ecologists note that the reduction of vegetation cover in high-altitude areas negatively affects the forage base for wild animals, including the snow leopard, and contributes to soil erosion. Shifting production to agricultural lands will significantly reduce anthropogenic impact on fragile mountain ecosystems.
The proposed law directs the market towards a transition to modern agricultural production methods, replacing the outdated model of "gathered and sold" with approaches that incorporate a system of certification and traceability of raw materials. Analysts predict that this will not only help preserve endemic plant species but also significantly increase the country's export potential in the growing international market for phytopreparations. For farmers working in remote regions, cultivating medicinal crops can become a profitable alternative to traditional agricultural practices, especially in challenging climatic conditions.
However, experts warn that the successful implementation of the reform requires a comprehensive approach: clear licensing mechanisms must be established, farmers need to be provided with quality seeds, and scientific monitoring of wild populations must be conducted. Only with effective control and support for producers can Kyrgyzstan achieve a balance between economic benefits and the preservation of its unique natural heritage for future generations.
