The controversy over "Rikhi": Deputy demands a response from the Ministry of Economy regarding the sausage composition

Сергей Гармаш Exclusive
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- On February 10, 2026, during a meeting of the committee of the Jogorku Kenesh dealing with judicial and legal issues, law enforcement, crime fighting, and anti-corruption, deputy Suyunbek Omurzakov addressed Deputy Minister of Economy Sultan Akhmatov with a question about the sausage products of the company "Rikha," in which pork was previously found.

The deputy pointed out the conflicting information regarding this product.
“Some claim it is halal, while others say it contains pork. What are the results of this investigation?” asked Omurzakov.
Akhmatov replied that as a result of a preliminary inspection by the veterinary laboratory, DNA from pork was indeed found.

“After the inspection at the veterinary laboratory, DNA from pork was recorded. Later, on January 12, we conducted repeated tests at the Center for the Development of the Halal Industry, where we confirmed the absence of pork,” he clarified.
Omurzakov expressed doubt about the reliability of the control, noting that having a certificate does not guarantee compliance with standards in the future.

“Companies can obtain a document and then continue to add pork. How often do you check such organizations?” asked the deputy.
In response, the deputy minister noted that permits for the production of halal products are not issued, as there is a separate procedure.

“We do not issue permits; we have our own procedure,” replied Akhmatov.
Nevertheless, the deputy disagreed with this position, pointing out the need for restrictions in case of non-compliance with standards.

“If the product does not meet the requirements, it is necessary to impose a ban on its sale. This misleads consumers when they think they are buying halal,” he emphasized.
Akhmatov added that a new draft law is being developed in connection with such situations.

“With this draft law, we plan to introduce accountability,” he noted.
In conclusion, Omurzakov emphasized the need for enhanced control until the new law is adopted.

“While the draft law is not adopted, will you just wait? We already have a resolution on halal products. I support this project, but until it is adopted, inspections and control of companies must be intensified,” said the deputy.
During the meeting, the draft law of the Kyrgyz Republic "On Amendments to the Code of the Kyrgyz Republic on Offenses" was also considered in the first reading, aimed at improving legal norms in the field of the halal industry.

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