Over 7 million KGS of U.S.-provided equipment supported Kyrgyz company SFN International LLC’s ability to open a modern cold storage facility in Jalal-Abad region. With a 1,100 metric ton storage capacity, the facility will improve food security and the livelihoods of farmers in rural regions of Kyrgyzstan, the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek reported.
“Having established such a modern cold storage facility our company will purchase more produce from farmers and offer cleaning, sorting, packing, and storage services, benefiting over 700 households in southern Kyrgyzstan. The facility will help farmers to reduce waste, improve agriculture quality, and boost income by around 150%. In addition, we plan to create 200 new jobs and help businesses export high-quality fresh produce and dried fruits,” said Ynakbek Abylkasymov, head of SFN International LLC.
The equipment was provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through its Agro Trade Activity. This and other U.S.-supported cold storage facilities throughout the Kyrgyz Republic help reduce waste, extend the shelf life of perishables, maintain market stability, and ensure a reliable and consistent supply of food throughout the year.
“Since 2018, the U.S. government has been partnering with Kyrgyz firms to establish over 20 new cold storage facilities in the Kyrgyz Republic´s southern regions. These facilities have a total storage capacity of 12,500 tons, more than doubling the storage capacity in the region, decreasing food spoilage by 40% and creating new income-generating activities for over 4,000 farmers,” said James Lykos, Director of USAID/Kyrgyzstan Economic Development Office.
