President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has instructed additional measures to curb price increases ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, including organizing fairs with affordable food products.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that ensuring price stability in the domestic market is of particular importance ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, which begins next week. According to him, in days symbolizing mercy, kindness, and gratitude, it is necessary to prevent price increases for basic food items.

The head of state instructed to organize fairs with food products at reduced prices in farmers' markets and large shopping complexes.

At the meeting, it was reported that annual inflation in January was 7.2%, with 45% of price increases attributed to food products, of which 13% were for meat. The need to address the feed base issue to reduce dependence on meat imports was noted.

As an example, Mubarek district was cited, where 5,000 hectares of land have been put into operation and corn sowing has begun. This year, similar work has been ordered on another 60,000 hectares, which will create a guaranteed feed base for an additional 350,000 head of livestock.

To improve small ruminant breeds, 100,000 sheep and goats were imported from Mongolia last year, and work in this direction will continue.

It was noted that last year's potato imports amounted to 772,000 tons. By 2026, responsible agencies and khokims have been tasked with ensuring a harvest of 4.5 million tons.

The Center for Sectoral Markets and Labor Productivity under the Ministry of Economy and Finance has been instructed to proactively identify internal and external inflationary risks and develop practical solutions. Its representatives will work in the ministry's regional departments, weekly analyze the situation in district and city markets, and forecast demand for basic goods for the month, quarter, and year ahead.

It has also been instructed to quarterly form a balance of basic food products, taking into account existing capacities, warehouse stocks, and possible sources to cover deficits.

Source: kun.uz