Kazakhstan 'plays an important role in Central Asian food market' - Business Forum in London

"Kazakhstan's agriculture showed growth despite the financial crisis. Kazakhstan plays an important role in the food market of the region. Our country is self-sufficient in basic commodities and has good export potential indicators," Mamytbekov said.

The Minister said that during the last five or six years, Kazakhstan has ranked among the largest exporters of grain and ranked first in exports of flour. The main share of exports goes to neighboring countries, that is, to Central Asia. But the geography of exports is expanding every year.

He noted that the increase in volume of exports causes some problems due to lack of access to the sea, 'so it is important to resolve the issue of transportation.'

Shri Suresh Prabhu, Ex Federal Cabinet Minister of Industry, Energy and Environment of India, shared his opinion on the significance of Kazakhstan in the field of agriculture. He noted that India fully understands the potential of Kazakhstan in this industry. But at the present time, agriculture does not make big contribution to GDP; Kazakhstan is committed to strengthening the industrial base. According to him, Kazakhstan should pay more attention to the agricultural sector, given its potential. Ex-minister stressed the importance of industry support from local banks.