Aral Sea region boosts agriculture with $300M in new investments and jobs
The Aral Sea region is expanding its agricultural sector with major investment projects. Last year alone, 16 initiatives worth 11.6 billion tenge were completed, and further funding has now been secured. This year, the government has allocated an additional 34.8 billion tenge to support growth in the area. One of the largest ongoing projects is a deep-processing corn plant in Syrdarya District, costing an estimated 40 billion tenge. Once operational, the facility will handle up to 150,000 tons of corn annually and create 550 permanent jobs. Meanwhile, corn cultivation in the region has already expanded to 15,000 hectares, backed by state financial support.
A new agro-industrial cluster is also taking shape in Syrdarya and Zhalagash districts. Spearheaded by Harvest Agro LLP, the project focuses on industrial hemp, corn, and soybean production and processing. The government has granted a 32,000-hectare land plot as part of the support package. Currently, 300 workers and 130 units of machinery are involved, with full completion expected by 2028.
Another key development is the Kyzylorda Starch and Glucose Syrup Plant, planned near Terenozek village. A 35-hectare site has been set aside, with the first phase including a drying and storage complex. The project follows a study of the Zharkent Starch and Glucose Syrup Plant to ensure efficiency.
Looking ahead, the region’s roadmap for 2026–2028 includes 17 agribusiness innovation initiatives worth 138.2 billion tenge. These efforts aim to diversify the economy and strengthen the processing industry. The combined investments will significantly increase agricultural output and job opportunities in the Aral Sea region. With state funding and large-scale projects underway, the sector is set for substantial growth over the next few years. The focus remains on expanding processing capacity and introducing new crop varieties.
