Agricultural Forum of Turkmenistan held on the sidelines of Green Tech Amsterdam 2024 in the Netherlands

A dedicated session at the prestigious Green Tech Amsterdam 2024 exhibition explored exciting economic opportunities for Dutch companies in Turkmenistan’s agricultural sector. The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Dutch and Turkmen business circles, the Turkmen Ministry of Agriculture, the Embassy of Turkmenistan, and leading European research and financial institutions.

The following speakers addressed the gathering:

• Sapar Palvanov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Belgium
• Kerim Saparov, representing the Turkmen Ministry of Agriculture
• Yagshymurat Kakajanov, Advisor to the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Belgium
• Joshgun Kerimov, Chief Agronomist of “Yigit” Company

Ambassador Palvanov delivered a comprehensive report, outlining the current economic landscape in Turkmenistan. He emphasized the country’s focus on fostering a favorable business climate for foreign investors and companies. This includes attractive tax benefits and streamlined procedures.

He further highlighted Turkmenistan’s commitment to environmental responsibility. As an energy power in Central Asia, the country prioritizes the adoption of eco-friendly and sustainable technologies across all economic sectors, including agriculture.

Ambassador Palvanov emphasized the government’s unwavering support for foreign investment, stating: “The Government of Turkmenistan creates equal rights for private companies of Turkmenistan and foreign investors. Those investing in business in Turkmenistan receive full government support.”

He further elaborated on three key motivations behind Turkmenistan’s participation in Green Tech Amsterdam and their mission to the Netherlands:

Environmental Responsibility: The government actively encourages all sectors, public and private, to adopt environmentally friendly and green technologies. Reducing methane emissions is a key priority.

Water Resource Conservation: The government promotes the use of water-saving technologies by both private and public entities to ensure responsible water management.

Direct Business Partnerships: Establishing direct connections between Dutch technology providers and Turkmen companies is crucial. This eliminates intermediaries, enhancing the competitiveness of Turkmen products and safeguarding the interests of their manufacturers.

Following the Ambassador’s address, the Embassy Advisor spoke about the thriving private sector in Turkmenistan, highlighting the critical role of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (UIET). The UIET actively coordinates and supports individual entrepreneurs, contributing to their success across various economic sectors.

Next, the Ministry of Agriculture representative delved into government initiatives fostering the private sector. The speech discussed programs and initiatives aimed at creating favorable conditions for entrepreneurs, including the provision of preferential loans, infrastructure support and the introduction of modern technologies.

The event also featured a presentation by a representative from the Turkmen agricultural company, “Yigit”. He highlighted the stimulating measures implemented by the government that have fostered company’s dynamic growth. Yigit currently exports to around 10 countries and has ambitious plans for further expansion. Yigit credits their success to the adoption of high technologies in production. This approach allows them to continuously develop their business and reach new sales markets.

Following the presentations, a lively Q&A session facilitated an exchange of views. Dutch companies posed insightful questions to clarify details about entering the Turkmen agricultural market. They expressed a desire to personally visit Turkmenistan and experience the market firsthand. This indicates a high interest in cooperation and investments in the agricultural sector of the country.

The event culminated in a proposal for a dedicated agricultural mission to Turkmenistan, comprising Dutch companies and institutions eager to explore opportunities in the sector. This mission would involve a comprehensive program, including meetings with government officials, potential Turkmen partners, and private sector representatives.