In Bishkek, the forum “The Future of Seed Production in Kyrgyzstan: Quality, Innovation, Partnership” took place on 13 February 2026. The event became an important platform for deepening bilateral ties in the agricultural sector and promoting modern approaches to seed production. It also placed special emphasis on expanding international cooperation, particularly between Kyrgyzstan and the Netherlands.
Beeld: © LVVN Astana / Flags of the Netherlands and Kyrgyzstan
Broad industry participation
The forum was organized by the Department of Expertise of Agricultural Crops and Horticulture under the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, together with the Agrolead Group of Companies and the Kyrgyz Research Institute of Agriculture. It brought together farmers, seed producers, cooperatives, scientists, private sector representatives, and international experts to discuss the strategic development of the seed industry.
Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding
A key highlight of the forum was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Agriculture of Kyrgyzstan, the Dutch company HZPC, and the Agrolead Group of Companies.
Beeld: © LVVN Astana / Signing of MoU between Agrolead, HZPC and Ministry of Agriculture of Kyrgyzstan
The document outlines cooperation in the development of high-quality seed production, the introduction of modern technologies, knowledge exchange, and the implementation of international standards in Kyrgyzstan’s seed sector. The agreement is expected to facilitate the transfer of advanced Dutch expertise in plant breeding and seed production, contributing to improved seed quality and greater competitiveness of Kyrgyz agriculture.
Addressing key challenges in the seed sector
Participants noted that the sector continues to face challenges, including a shortage of high-quality seeds, outdated breeding infrastructure, and limited coordination among science, business, and government institutions. Strengthened international cooperation, particularly with the Netherlands, is viewed as a practical step toward overcoming these obstacles.
Support from the Netherlands
The forum received partial financial support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, underscoring the Dutch government’s commitment to supporting sustainable agricultural development and strengthening long-term cooperation with Kyrgyzstan.
Beeld: © LVVN Astana / Seeds Forum in Bishkek
Toward a modern and competitive seed industry
The newly signed MoU is expected to become a catalyst for building a modern, innovation-driven, and competitive seed production system in Kyrgyzstan. Forum participants expressed confidence that deeper Kyrgyz–Dutch collaboration will contribute to increased agricultural productivity, improved food security, and sustainable sector development nationwide.