The Research Institute of Horse Breeding in the Aktobe region of western Kazakhstan is expected to become fully operational in 2026. The institute aims to support national livestock breeding and safeguard Kazakhstan’s rich equestrian heritage.
The creation of the institute was first announced in the fall of 2024 during the inaugural Forum of Agricultural Workers. Its objectives include increasing the national horse population, advancing selective breeding of native breeds, and boosting the export of horse products.
The transformation of a former experimental station in Aktobe into a specialized scientific center marked the project’s practical launch. A new facility is currently under construction and will include five laboratories focused on genetic and breeding research. Completion is scheduled for May 2026.
“The main tasks of the institute are to develop exports of horse meat and milk (kumys), promote national sports and sport horse breeding, and create conditions for domestic jockeys to compete internationally,” said Alibek Bazargaliev, chairman of the Kazakh Horse Breeding and Feed Production Research Institute.
The institute’s infrastructure will feature a riding arena, stables, a veterinary station, research labs, and a racetrack, forming a base for research, breeding, and the training of industry professionals.
Driving factor
Although Kazakhstan’s horse population has grown, the share of purebred animals remains below 1%. Of the country’s 4.2 million horses, only about 40,000 belong to recognized breeding lines. This disparity was a driving factor behind the institute’s establishment.
Kazakhstan is home to several unique native breeds, including the Jabe, Adai, Kostanay, Kushum, and Imugaljar. The Jabe, considered the oldest, has been integral to nomadic life for millennia. It is known for its endurance and versatility, making it suitable for riding, labor, and the production of meat and milk.
Horse milk called Kumys, a national Kazakh drink
In 2023, a new law was adopted to preserve domestic breeds. It facilitates the import of foreign sport horses for breeding purposes, increases funding for breeding programs, and provides compensation for producers’ costs.
Kazakhstan is also advancing efforts to restore rare species, including Przewalski’s horse, the Turanian tiger, and the snow leopard.
Author: Dmitry Pokidaev
Source: The Times of Central Asia https://timesca.com/