Mirziyoyev Highlights Achievements of the Agricultural Sector and Sets Ambitious Targets for 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, marking the Day of Agricultural Workers, met with representatives of the sector at the Kuksaroy Residence, praising the contribution of dehqans, farmers, agronomists, machine operators and water management specialists to ensuring the country’s food security.

The head of state emphasized that the agricultural sector, which employs 3.5 million people, is demonstrating record results.

This year, Uzbekistan produced around 4 million tonnes of cotton with an average yield of 46 centners per hectare — a result achieved for the first time.

Grain output reached 8.4 million tonnes, while rice growers harvested 1.34 million tonnes. The expansion of orchards and vineyards continues: over the past three years, 155,000 hectares of new plantations have been created, including 150,000 hectares of intensive orchards.

Fruit production reached 3.4 million tonnes, and vegetables and potatoes — 19.5 million tonnes.

Food exports increased by 37% to US$3 billion; by the end of 2025, the export volume is expected to exceed US$3.2 billion. The geography of exports has expanded to 83 countries.

During the ceremony, Mirziyoyev presented state awards to distinguished sector workers and outlined priorities for the coming year.

Key efforts will focus on modernizing cotton cultivation, expanding areas planted with advanced varieties, and introducing new technologies.

Under the “Scheme 76,” 891,000 hectares will be sown, while the area allocated to resilient foreign varieties will increase to 500,000 hectares. Preferential loans totaling 2.6 trillion soums are allocated for drip irrigation, and farmers will receive subsidies of up to 10% of their harvest.

In parallel, Uzbekistan will begin developing its own high-yield cotton varieties — research centers will introduce a phytotron and greenhouse facilities, while breeding programs will be expanded. The system of preferential supplies of fertilizers and fuel through the commodity exchange will remain in force.

A new farmer rating system is being introduced, which will determine interest rates on concessional loans: the best-performing farms will be able to obtain financing at 8% for cotton and 10% for grain.

An innovation-based agriculture school is being established in Mirzachul, where 1,000 farmers will undergo training and be able to improve their ratings.

Human resource development was emphasized as well: 180 students of the Agricultural University will participate in dual practice programs, while innovative agronomists will receive salaries of US$2,000 per month. To boost mechanization, the government plans to purchase 800 cotton harvesters and other equipment.

Support will also be strengthened in other areas. Farmers cultivating grain using their own funds will receive subsidies of up to 10% of their harvest.

In 2026, a three-year program to establish new orchards and vineyards will begin, while intensive orchards will be eligible for seven-year loans at 14% with a grace period.

Loan rates for constructing refrigerated storage facilities will be reduced, and exporters will be reimbursed for 50% of packaging costs.

To develop livestock farming, Uzbekistan plans to import 100,000 head of cattle and 200,000 sheep and goats; US$157 million will be allocated to sectoral projects. Modernization of fish farming continues — two breeding centers are being established, while farms will receive tax incentives and compensation.

For the first time, all agricultural subsidies will be consolidated under a single institution — the Payments Agency, which will streamline the subsidy process. Next year, the agency will allocate 2.02 trillion soums.

Voluntary crop insurance is being introduced, with the state covering half of insurance premiums.

The use of agro-drones will be expanded: in addition to the existing 100 drones, another 50 will be purchased, and mobile service units will be created in every region. The government also plans to reduce the network of open drainage and collector systems by shifting to closed systems — US$100 million has been allocated for this purpose.

Mirziyoyev announced the establishment of the Academy of Agricultural Sciences, which will unite research centers and ensure the integration of science, education and production.

In addition, 500 leading farmers and horticulturists will undergo training abroad — in China, Türkiye, the Netherlands and France.

During the meeting, the President held an open dialogue with agricultural workers and listened to their proposals, stressing that science and innovation must become the foundation for the sector’s further development.