The demand for purebred Simmental and Aberdeen Angus cattle is growing in Kyrgyzstan

“The Simmental breed is in demand due to its high milk fat content. The higher the fat content, the higher the price. Consumers pay close attention to the composition of milk — fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Because of this, specific requirements are set for cow breeds,” noted Mambetova.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the increased interest in the Simmental breed is primarily due to its high dairy productivity, particularly its rich milk fat content, which ensures a higher market value. The breed is being actively introduced in various regions of the country, including the Chuy and Talas regions.

At the same time, demand is also growing for the beef-oriented Aberdeen Angus breed, especially in the Issyk-Kul, Naryn, and southern regions, where beef cattle farming has traditionally prevailed.

To improve breeding stock and genetic quality, the Ministry of Agriculture is implementing a 60 million som program that includes the purchase of semen from elite bulls in Russia. As Mambetova clarified, these are animals that have undergone strict selection and evaluation. A batch of semen has also been received from donor organizations in Switzerland.

In addition to foreign procurement, the Kyrgyz Research Institute of Livestock and Pastures continues to operate in the country. The institute houses eight breeding bulls of the Schwyz, Simmental, Aberdeen Angus, and Ala-Atinskaya breeds — the latter being a local dual-purpose (meat and dairy) breed. Semen from these animals is distributed through the national network of artificial insemination centers.