On 18 March, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the Agency for Quarantine and Plant Protection and reviewed the presentation on plans in the field.

Under the Ministry of Agriculture, the Agency for Quarantine and Plant Protection serves as a vital state management entity overseeing quarantine, plant protection, and agrochemistry. Its responsibilities encompass soil composition analysis, monitoring fertilizers and agricultural products, pest control, preventing their introduction and spread, and ensuring the production of phytosanitary-clean products.

In recent years, the sphere has witnessed the introduction of 7 new information systems and the digitalization of 40 areas. Leveraging about $20 million in grants from international organizations and financial institutions, significant upgrades were made to laboratory facilities and equipment. Soil analysis of 1,040,000 hectares of land was carried out using stationary and mobile laboratories across different regions. This comprehensive analysis led to the establishment of scientifically based norms for the application of mineral fertilizers, which were subsequently integrated into the uzagrolab.uz program. Farmers are now able to cultivate their fields and gardens with greater precision, thanks to the valuable information and recommendations provided by this program.

These measures serve as crucial factors in ensuring the quality and safety of our fruits and vegetables. Currently, 620 phytosanitary permits have been obtained for exporting agricultural products to 80 countries. Additionally, under the “GSP+” system, 200,000 hectares of land have been adapted to meet international requirements. In 2023, agricultural sector exports reached nearly $2 billion. However, the actual export potential far exceeds this figure.

On January 18 of this year, during a video conference meeting on exports and industry issues, measures regarding vegetable and fruit cultivation were also identified. Specifically, the Agency for Plant Quarantine and Protection was assigned the responsibility of coordinating the cultivation of export crops and exploring new potential markets.

The presentation covered insights into the ongoing works and plans in this regard.

One of the projects introduced is the mobile application 'Agrokoumakchi, which provides useful information on plant protection, related services in this area, and export guidance.

The Asiaexport.se platform serves as a bridge connecting domestic exporters with foreign buyers. It features information about a diverse array of products, encompassing not only fruits, vegetables, and dried fruits, but also juices, household goods, confectionery, textiles, leather goods, and pharmaceutical products.

The presentation also included details about the Agency's collaboration with the international innovative system ePhyto solution, facilitating the electronic exchange of phytosanitary certificates with 119 countries. Additionally, plans for this year involve obtaining phytosanitary authorization for the export of 25 types of products to eight additional countries.

Such measures are aimed at increasing the export of agricultural products to $3.5 billion this year.

In pursuit of this goal, the Head of state emphasized the necessity of expanding the production of export-oriented products and enhancing awareness among farmers.

“Despite having established a legal framework and agreements with numerous countries, exporters continue to face challenges in selling their products. Therefore, it is essential to establish a permanent 'communication platform' with exporters.” stated Shavkat Mirziyoyev. “Hokims should acquaint exporters with the products grown in the region, while ambassadors need to familiarize exporters with the dynamics of demand and prices in foreign markets," emphasized the President.

The President highlighted the significance of fruit and vegetable packaging.

“The packaging should meet international standards, featuring modern design and industrialized production. Ensuring quality packaging will contribute to the establishment of a national brand and elevate added value,” stated the Head of the state. “Therefore, it is essential to educate exporters on the importance of packing goods correctly, neatly, and beautifully,” emphasized the President.

It was emphasized that working systematically is crucial to prevent products from becoming unusable and to ensure that only high-quality goods are included in exports.

The President emphasized the importance of implementing a cluster system in this area.

“It is essential to ensure mutual consistency and high quality at all stages, from training to planting, fertilizing, harvesting, and sorting," said the Uzbek leader.

The Cabinet of Ministers was tasked with developing a 3-year program aimed at improving this system and the planned organization of exports. Emphasis was placed on directing exports to relatively expensive markets by expanding international cooperation.

The Head of state visited the agency's modern laboratory and gave instructions to enhance its scientific potential, incorporate global scientific advancements, and swiftly integrate them into the relevant departments.

Demonstrations of machinery and equipment used in the agrochemical system were also conducted here.

It was highlighted that highly effective entomophages were imported from abroad for pest control. Guidelines for the cultivation, storage, packaging, and delivery of each product have been developed with the participation of experienced experts. Additionally, 10 mobile laboratories have been established.

This year, an additional 10 mobile laboratories will be established in the regions. Furthermore, 6,000 gardens, over 3,000 vineyards and fields, and 344 packaging plants will be brought into compliance with international phytosanitary requirements. Additionally, all processes related to the circulation of pesticides will be digitized, and efforts will be made to halt the import and illegal trade of low-quality pesticides.

The President gave instructions for the professional development of specialists in the sphere and to ensure that the agency's services are accessible to every farmer and owner of a personal plot.