Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan is set to ramp up imports of cattle from Russia’s Altai Republic, a key topic discussed during a recent meeting held at the Ministry of Agriculture of the Altai Republic. The meeting included the participation of Aslam Akbarov, Uzbekistan’s Consul General in Novosibirsk, according to the Dunyo news agency.

The session was chaired by Andrey Tsygulev, head of the regional agricultural authority, and brought together senior officials from relevant departments as well as representatives of the largest livestock enterprises in the Altai Mountains.

Participants emphasized the strategic importance of deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with Uzbekistan, especially in the fields of livestock farming and pedigree breeding. It was noted that in 2024, cattle exports from the Altai region — including to Uzbekistan — increased by nearly 68%, thanks to established partnerships.

Aslam Akbarov highlighted the strong potential not only for the export of cattle, but also small ruminants and horses. He also expressed interest in developing cooperation in maral deer farming and the production of antler-based products.

Livestock producers in Altai confirmed their strong interest in expanding ties with Uzbekistan. Vasily Kulakov, director of the Merkity complex, reported that over 3,600 head of cattle were exported by the enterprise in 2024 alone. The company also plans to ship 1,500 horses to Uzbekistan’s Bukhara region and 200 maral deer in August.

Galina Toptygina, head of the company Kayral, noted the ongoing and productive partnership with the Uzbek firm Naslchilik from Kashkadarya Region. As part of this collaboration, 930 mountain Altai goats have already been supplied this year.

Special attention was given to the need for developing direct links between farmers in both countries. Eliminating intermediaries was seen as a way to reduce costs and increase efficiency in the supply chain.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed to establish a joint working group, to be co-led by the Minister of Agriculture of the Altai Republic and Uzbekistan’s Consul General in Novosibirsk.