BAKU, Azerbaijan, Apr. 17
By Ilkin Seyfaddini – Trend:
In six specialized districts of Fergana region of Uzbekistan, 20 fruit and vegetable clusters have been created, Trend reports with reference to the National News Agency.
Some 10,840 hectares of land are assigned for the clusters, which are expected to reach production of 288,000 tons of fruit and vegetable products.
In 2020-2021, cluster enterprises of Fergana region will implement 172 projects worth 253.4 billion soum ($25.2 million).
Five cluster farms producing fruit and vegetable have been established in the Kuva city of Uzbekistan. Besides, clusters specializing in viticulture have been established at Mokhlaroy farm, and over 1,600 jobs have been created.
"Some 2, 441 hectares was allocated for the creation of fruit and vegetable clusters in Kuva district. According to preliminary calculations, only this year, 41,4 tons of fruit and vegetable will be grown, from them 13,6 tons - for domestic consumption, 6,000 tons - for processing. As planned, 17.2 tons will be exported, while 4.5 tons will make up a reserve," the report says.
Seven projects will be launched with investment funds in the amount of 20.4 billion soum (over 2 million dollars). As reported,11 cold storage facilities with total capacity of 6,200 tons will be built. The material and technical base of cluster farms will be strengthened.
Moreover, 300 million soum ($29,865) has been allocated for the implementation of new projects in Mokhlaroy farm. The Agency for the Development of Viticulture and Winemaking allocates 240 million soum ($23,892).
"Currently, 85 hectares are planted and cultivated in canteens, and 20 hectares are used for industrial grape varieties in Mokhlaroy farm of Kuva city, 100 new jobs have been created. For maintenance of water supply to these plantations, the system of drip irrigation was introduced. It allows reducing water expenses by 4-5 times and production cost, while increasing net profit", the report says.
Farmers have also started growing vegetables, melon and leguminous crops between rows. Cultivated products are bought at free-market prices, processed and exported.
In accordance with the perspective program, projects on construction of refrigerated storage with capacity of 1500 tons and creation of grape processing enterprises in 2022 are being implemented.
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