The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic held the first meeting of the technical working group on the project to promote wild walnuts under the national brand "Kyrgyz Jangak."
Beeld: © FAO Kyrgyzstan
This event marked an important milestone in implementing the project supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) under the global initiative "One Country - One Priority Product" (OCOPP).
The working group was established according to the Ministry's order dated June 14, 2025. It includes representatives from various government and public institutions.
During the meeting, the key project objectives were identified:
- Development of a national marketing plan to promote Kyrgyz walnuts;
- Creation of a brand strategy and visual identity under the registered geographical indication "Arstanbap Wild Walnut";
- Design of environmentally friendly packaging and a digital promotion strategy;
- Preparation of a draft law on Kyrgyz walnuts.
Beeld: © FAO Kyrgyzstan
Flags of FAO and Kyrgyzstan
Representatives of "Kyrgyzpatent" explained the legal protection procedures for the name "Kyrgyz Jangak" as a national trademark. The State Standard Committee noted the necessity of developing a separate standard specifically for "Kyrgyz Jangak," as currently, a general "walnut" standard is applied without indication of origin.
Deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh, Emil Toktoshev, expressed readiness to support the initiative at the legislative level, emphasizing its importance for expanding income sources in rural areas.
Brand strategist Marsel Sheishenov pointed out that for the brand to succeed, quality packaging and a logo are not enough — it is crucial to clearly position the Kyrgyz walnut as a unique product and convey its value to the global consumer.
Strategic Importance of the Project for Kyrgyzstan
Beeld: © FAO Kyrgyzstan
walnuts selection in Kyrgyzstan (FAO project)
Wild walnuts growing in the relic forests of the Jalal-Abad region are not only a valuable natural resource but also a source of income for thousands of Kyrgyz families. Developing the "Kyrgyz Jangak" brand creates opportunities to:
- Protect the product’s origin through the officially registered geographical indication (since November 2024);
- Increase export potential and ensure fair income distribution;
- Promote the image of the Kyrgyz Republic as a supplier of environmentally clean and organic products;
- Expand the participation of local communities, especially women, in the walnut production and processing chain.
Beeld: © FAO Kyrgyzstan
The meeting, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, marked the launch of coordinated national efforts to build a strong and sustainable "Kyrgyz Jangak" brand.
For more information please read the article (in Russian) https://agro.kg/ru/news/34837