USAID Kyrgyz Republic Agro Trade Activity
The Kyrgyz Republic accounts for 6.3 million people, with a slow-growing, agriculture-led economy. Although economic growth is steady, employment opportunities have lagged. This has forced many people to leave so that they can seek income-generating opportunities elsewhere, which has created economic and social obstacles to peaceful and prosperous living. The central government has historically neglected southern regions of Kyrgyzstan, including parts of the Fergana Valley, which has led to economic and social marginalization, including a rise in violent extremism among young populations.
The USAID Kyrgyz Republic Agro Trade Activity tackles these challenges by supporting job creation; strengthening value chains; and improving the economic environment in the Kyrgyz Republic through agricultural business interventions that boost productivity, build international markets, and support policy reform. The activity promotes inclusive jobs and sales growth in agribusinesses, strengthens cross-border linkages with the Fergana Valley, and fosters economic cooperation between the Kyrgyz Republic and Uzbekistan. With more economic opportunities in the rural south, the activity also mitigates opportunities for violent extremism.
By improving the enabling environment and policies for agricultural trade and business in southern rural Kyrgyzstan, the program helps agribusinesses flourish — creating jobs and increasing sales.