Kazakhstan Sets Record for Ice Cream Exports Despite Decline in Production
Key Export Markets
Nearly all ice cream exports were directed to three main markets:
- Russia: 69% of total exports, with a near doubling of volume compared to the previous year.
- Kyrgyzstan: 20% of total exports.
- Uzbekistan: 9% of total exports.
Russia showed the most significant increase in demand, making it the primary driver of the record-breaking export figures.
Decline in Production and Shrinking Domestic Supply
Interestingly, the record exports were achieved despite a slight decline in domestic ice cream production. From January to November 2024, Kazakhstan produced 49,400 tons of ice cream, which is 3% less than during the same period in 2023.
Imports also decreased by 3%, amounting to 12,500 tons. This combination of reduced production and increased exports led to a 10% decline in the availability of ice cream on the domestic market compared to the previous year.
Balancing External and Internal Markets
The surge in exports, coupled with lower production and imports, reflects growing international demand for Kazakhstani ice cream. However, this trend poses challenges for the domestic market, where consumers are facing reduced supply.
Experts suggest that sustaining the growth in ice cream exports will require addressing production capacity and ensuring a balance between external and internal markets to meet both international demand and local needs.
