Kyrgyzstan meets 127% of its raw milk needs, but processes only up to 30% of the volume

According to him, the dairy industry remains one of the most developed sectors in the country's agriculture. Stable connections have been established between farmers and processing companies, and dairy plants produce a wide range of products.

"More than half of this production is exported," said Chekiyaev.

Annually, more than 1.8 million tons of raw milk are produced in Kyrgyzstan. However, only about 500,000–600,000 tons, or up to 30% of the total volume, are directed for processing.

The remaining portion is either consumed within households or sold at markets without industrial processing. The Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges that the milk processing level in the country remains relatively low.

One unresolved issue in the industry is pricing between farmers and processors. Raw material producers are interested in a higher purchase price, while processing companies focus on their own costs and market opportunities.

"Farmers always want to sell milk at a good price. At the same time, processing companies do not buy it at the price farmers want," Chekiyaev reported.

According to him, this issue is raised annually in the Talas, Issyk-Kul, and Chuy regions—key dairy regions of Kyrgyzstan.