The results of the agricultural census have shown that the actual number of livestock in the country is significantly lower than previously thought. For example, the number of cattle was found to be 2.1 million head less, and sheep and goats 1.5 million head less than reported.

In the Kashkadarya region, the cattle count was 171,000 head lower, and sheep and goats 288,000 head lower. This means the region could face a shortfall of about 50,000 tons of meat and 120 million liters of milk.

To develop livestock farming, 1 trillion soums were allocated from the Agricultural Fund in May. An additional $50 million will be directed from the Reconstruction and Development Fund.

These funds will support farmers. Loans of up to 5 billion soums will be available for creating livestock complexes, and up to 20 billion soums for developing pedigree cattle breeding. Loans will be issued for 10 years with a 4-year grace period.

The meeting also noted plans to import 100,000 head of cattle and 150,000 head of sheep and goats from abroad by the end of the year. The preferential tariff for importing meat by air has been extended until the end of the year.

Source: www.uznews.uz