Sustainable transformation of Uzbekistan’s livestock sector: The path to success with AFD support

The “Livestock Sector Sustainable Development Financing” project, implemented in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), marks the beginning of a new era for Uzbekistan’s agriculture. This initiative goes beyond providing financial support; it is fundamentally transforming the livelihoods of farmers through the integration of innovative technologies, green energy principles, and the creation of new jobs. Below are the success stories of four agricultural enterprises that have achieved exceptional results within the framework of this project.

A new era for dairy production in Karakalpakstan

Located in the Nukus district, the “Koniratbay Mekhri” farm has reached a significant milestone by securing over 3.5 billion UZS in concessional financing through the project. This investment enabled the acquisition of state-of-the-art Italian dairy processing equipment and a specialized ISUZU-based milk tanker.  As a result, the enterprise has substantially diversified its product portfolio — now featuring yogurt, kefir, sour cream, and various cheeses — while creating 10 new permanent jobs. Today, the farm is on track to achieve a net profit of up to 600 million UZS per season and is actively pursuing further expansion of its operations.

Green energy and innovative aquaculture in Fergana

The “Jaloliddin Goipov” farm in the Fergana region stands as a prime example of commitment to the principles of sustainable development. By securing 300 million UZS in credit financing, the farm successfully installed 90 solar panels. This innovative solution has not only enabled the enterprise to save approximately 7 million UZS per month on electricity costs but has also created a new revenue stream by selling surplus energy back to the national grid.

Simultaneously, in the “Soy Bo’yi” makhalla of the Fergana region, the “Status Soft” family enterprise has successfully implemented intensive trout farming methods. Within the framework of the AFD (French Development Agency) project, funds exceeding 1 billion UZS were allocated to construct modern pools and install refrigeration equipment. Looking ahead, the enterprise plans a tenfold expansion of its production area—increasing from the current 0.02 to 0.2 hectares (2 to 20 ares).

Khorezm: a catalyst for fisheries sector growth

The “Jahongir Mustafo” farm, located in the Yangiaryk district, has increased its annual fish production capacity to 120 tons, following an investment of 1.35 billion UZS. The project demonstrates high economic efficiency, with a profitability rate of 48.8%. To date, supply contracts have been signed with more than 20 organizations. As noted by the head of the farm, Ulugbek Matmuratov, soft loans provided under the AFD project play a pivotal role in reducing regional unemployment and ensuring the population has access to affordable, high-quality fish products.

The provided examples clearly demonstrate the high efficiency of the joint project involving the French Development Agency (AFD) in ensuring economic growth and environmental sustainability in the rural areas of Uzbekistan. The implementation of modern technologies and the provision of targeted support to farmers make it possible to meet current domestic market needs while building a solid foundation for sustainable development in the future.