The Kyrgyz district confirms its leadership in national production, with over 5,000 tons of sweet cherries despite adverse weather. Prices are rising and foreign demand remains high.
In 2025, farmers in the Kadamjay district, located in the Batken region of southern Kyrgyzstan, harvested more than 5,080 tons of sweet cherries grown on an area of 1,090 hectares. In addition, 600 tons of sour cherries were gathered from 114 dedicated hectares.
The first cherries of the season ripened as early as the beginning of May in the village of Kyrgyz-Kyshtak, where initial prices ranged between 150 and 350 soms per kilo (about €1.60–€3.70), depending on variety and quality. Sour cherries, however, were sold at much lower prices, ranging from 40 to 80 soms (€0.40–€0.85) per kilo.
Compared to previous years, when total production ranged between 6,000 and 7,000 tons annually, the 2025 harvest recorded a decline mainly caused by heavy spring rains. Nevertheless, the price trend proved favorable for local growers.
By June, average cherry prices had risen to 340–350 soms per kilo (€3.60–€3.70), with peaks of up to 370 soms (€3.90) for the most prized varieties.
Among the most appreciated cultivars, Kokon gilas continues to stand out for its organoleptic characteristics and storability, making it particularly sought after in international markets. This fruit is exported in large volumes, confirming Kadamjay district’s strategic role as Kyrgyzstan’s leading cherry hub, both for domestic consumption and export.
Currently, Kazakhstan and Russia are the main markets for Kyrgyz cherries, but in the recent past shipment tests were also carried out to China, demonstrating the growing interest in new commercial outlets in the Asian region.
Despite climatic challenges, the 2025 cherry season in Kyrgyzstan showed positive signs in terms of prices and exports. Kadamjay confirms itself as a key territory in the supply chain of Central Asian cherries, with untapped potential toward new markets such as China.
An evolution to watch for those operating in the international fresh fruit trade.
Source: freshplaza.com
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