Kazakhstan Introduces Veterinary Sector Reform in Moscow
At the Second International Forum 'Veterinary Safety' in Moscow, Deputy Minister of Agriculture of Kazakhstan Amangaliy Berdalin outlined the main directions of the veterinary sector reform. The event was attended by the Minister of Agriculture of Russia Oksana Lut, representatives from Turkey, India, and Belarus, the Eurasian Economic Commission, FAO, international industry organizations, and businesses.
Participants discussed preventing the spread of animal infections across borders, diagnostic and prevention methods, the development of veterinary services, and international cooperation. Berdalin stated that veterinary safety is not only about animal health but also about food security, economic stability, and international trade.
According to the Kazakh side, the epizootic situation in the country remains stable. Kazakhstan is recognized as free from foot-and-mouth disease, allowing the export of animal products to 42 countries. A total of 3,886 enterprises have been listed as eligible to export to foreign countries.
The country has approved a comprehensive veterinary development plan for 2026–2030, including eight priorities: animal and animal product safety, strengthening laboratory infrastructure, expanding exports, training of specialists, developing national production of veterinary drugs, and renewing state regulations.
One reform direction is the digitalization of the veterinary system. By the end of 2026, the authorities plan to complete major updates to information systems, automate accounting, and transition to QazTech technological solutions. Specific digital projects aim to ensure traceability of animals and animal products and enhance transparency in the control of movement of regulated goods.
"Epizootic well-being knows no boundaries. Effective counteraction to transboundary biological threats is only possible through rapid information exchange, coordinated actions, and joint efforts of veterinary services, government authorities, science, and the professional community," Berdalin said.
On the sidelines of the forum, representatives of state regulators, scientific organizations, and industry associations discussed updating the regulatory framework and applying a risk-oriented approach. They also exchanged practices and identified directions for further cooperation in veterinary safety.
