The coronavirus pandemic, which is detrimental to the whole world, actualizes issues of food production.

On April 10, at the videoconference chaired by the President, devoted to development of a cluster system in cotton and grain growing, the effective organization of spring agricultural work and increasing yields, issues that need to be addressed were discussed and specific tasks were outlined.

The Head of the state noted that in these difficult days, all leaders, farmers must unite and engage in increasing production.

In the difficult circumstances associated with the pandemic, there will be no problems in Uzbekistan in matters of food. Since in the last three years, large-scale reforms have been and are being carried out in the sphere. The state order for cotton and grain has been canceled, pricing has been liberalized. Production is transferred to the cluster system, all conditions and opportunities are created for development of clusters. The cluster system is formed with the aim of increasing the volume of production, achieving high added value and creating new jobs, and most importantly – increasing income and interest of citizens.

Taking into account the current difficult conditions, representatives of the agricultural sector are given preferences. According to the decree on mitigating the effects of the pandemic, the loan repayment period was extended, and a number of tax benefits were introduced. All this contributes to maintaining price stability in food markets.

The need of people for flour and flour products is high. Despite the fact that in connection with the pandemic in the last three months, the volume of import of flour into the country decreased by 50% compared to the last year, grain – by 31%, stable prices remain on the domestic market. The question arises, due to what prices do not rise? First of all, due to the fact that last year the purchase prices for grain were increased, the interest of farmers was ensured and an additional amount of grain was grown.

At the videoconference, necessary and urgent tasks to continue such effective reforms were outlined. In particular, it was noted that in the current season, based on the real situation, it is important to organize and carry out agrotechnical measures correctly, to achieve an increase in the yield through additional agrotechnical measures.

All this is necessary to meet the needs of people in qualitative and affordable food products. All reforms are carried out in the name of people’s interests.

In conclusion, I want to call on people to steadfastness, patience and to overcome this trial without loss.

Barno Mirzamova,

Member of the Committee

on Agriculture and Water Issues

of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis