Sustainable Farming Futures: the Economic Need of Climate Change Program in Uzbekistan

Abstract

Uzbekistan is known as one of the main fruit and vegetable producers among the commonwealth of independent
states (Hasanov et al., 2014). In addition, almost half of the population lives in rural areas (Statistics
Agency data, 2023). Therefore, agricultural sector is one of the most important sector in Uzbekistan: almost
24% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) accounted for agricultural in 2023 (Statistics Agency data, 2023) and
over 25% of employed population work in the sector (Statistics Agency data, 2023). Over the last few years,
the market size of agricultural products has seen annual growth and this is improving food security of the
country. In order to have higher profit from vegetable and fruit farms, farmers are working with exact plans to
develop export markets for these products (Uzbekistan – Agricultural Sectors, 2021). However, there are some
challenges in the agricultural sector of Uzbekistan which are waiting for possible solutions. Environmental
shortcomings are known as the most crucial ones that will be discussed in this policy brief. The brief will also
illustrate ongoing activities making sustainable agriculture and will recommend policy options to contribute to
successful greening agenda.