Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan's Ferghana region plans to introduce 10 seedless grape varieties developed under the ARRA breeding programme, with US company Grapa Global intending to supply planting material to support modern viticulture and expand the region's export potential.
The plans were announced at a seminar on viticulture development, the introduction of promising grape varieties and the establishment of modern vineyards. The event was held at the Ferghana Expo exhibition complex.
Participants included Ferghana Region Governor Khayrullo Bozorov, Grapa Global Chief Executive Officer Rafi Karniel, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Jamshidjon Abduzukhurov, representatives of relevant organisations, foreign partners and farmers.
Following the meeting, Uzbekistan's Ministry of Agriculture, the Uzagrostar holding, the Ferghana regional administration and Grapa Global LLC signed a memorandum of cooperation. The document provides for the development of viticulture, the organisation of seedling imports and the expansion of agricultural exports.
In addition to supplying planting material, the US company intends to support the introduction of modern technologies and advanced grape-growing practices.
Bozorov said seedless grape varieties were in demand on international markets and could help increase the added value of agricultural products and export revenues. Their characteristics, including taste, appearance and ability to retain quality during transportation and storage, make them promising for export markets, he said.
More than 400 farms grow grapes across 4,500 hectares in the Ferghana region. Around 3,400 hectares, or nearly 76% of the region's total vineyard area, are located in Altyaryk district.
The seminar also covered agricultural development programmes, including the Agrostar project, and plans to double the area under vineyards.
Grapa Global CEO Rafi Karniel highlighted the region's favourable climatic conditions and expressed interest in moving quickly towards the practical implementation of the agreements.
Participants expect the introduction of new grape varieties and cultivation technologies to increase farmers' incomes, improve product quality and strengthen Ferghana region's export potential.
