President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan 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 particularly important 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 hikes on basic food items.

The head of state ordered the organization of 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 the price increase attributed to food products, of which 13% was 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 use and corn sowing has begun. This year, similar work has been ordered on an additional 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 instructed to ensure a harvest of 4.5 million tons.

The Center for Sectoral Markets and Labor Productivity under the Ministry of Economy and Finance has been tasked with identifying internal and external inflationary risks in advance and developing 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 ordered 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