Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 27 July, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev arrived in Fergana region to get acquainted with the ongoing work to improve the population’s welfare and develop the economy.

Developing growth points in each region and creating jobs and sources of income for people is a priority goal of state policy in Uzbekistan. In Oltiariq district of Fergana region, agriculture is one of the drivers for achieving these goals. The residents of this region have a rich tradition of growing and exporting food products.

Previously, a lot of cotton and grain were grown in the region. According to the idea of the Head of state, the structure of crops was changed based on the beneficial advantages of the region and market requirements. Farmers were given the freedom to choose crops and the necessary support.

In particular, the resolutions of the President of Uzbekistan on creating value chains in the fruit and vegetable industry and introducing a cluster system in the development of viticulture have opened up new opportunities. Subsidies have been provided to farms. The state encourages producers to introduce advanced technologies. As a result of the conditions created, viticulture has become a significant area, and the number of extensive vineyards is increasing more and more.

In 2020, a vine plantation was established by the “Khayrullo Bakhrom Boymatov” farm on 75 hectares. The Head of state visited this vineyard.

Grape varieties such as Husayni, Kelinbarmoq, Rizamat, and Mercedes are grown here. Next year it is planned to harvest 3,000 tons of grapes.

In the past, farmers also grew cotton in these vineyards. The farmer harvested an average of 25 hectares of cotton per hectare. Now the vineyard gives almost 10 times more profit per hectare than cotton.

Considering seasonal workers, it is also essential that the farm employs 700 people. They earn up to 200 thousand soums a day.

The President noted the need to train young people and unemployed citizens in viticulture, involve them in the production of grapes based on cooperation, and involve compatriots abroad in this process.

Apple, cherry, and apricot seedlings are also planted in the garden, and watermelon, melon, tomatoes, peppers, bell peppers, and other vegetables are grown. This serves as an additional source of income for the population and exports of products.

A refrigerated warehouse with a capacity of 2,000 tons was built next to the garden. Here the products are stored and sorted. They will be exported to Türkiye and the CIS countries.

The Head of state noted that many areas in the country are climatically favorable for viticulture and instructed to extend the Oltiariq experience and create more vineyards.