Turkmenistan is intensifying efforts to modernize its agricultural and food production sectors as international companies gathered in Ashgabat this week for the Agro Pack Turkmenistan-2026 exhibition and conference focused on agriculture, food processing, and packaging technologies.
The event highlighted the country’s strategy to reduce long-standing dependence on food imports, address supply challenges, and strengthen its position as a future exporter of agricultural products. Turkmenistan has faced issues related to food shortages and rising prices in recent years, while climate change, transportation disruptions, and increasing fuel and logistics costs have added further pressure on food supply systems across the region.
Earlier this year, the Food and Agriculture Organization signed an agreement to establish an office in Turkmenistan, marking a significant step in the country’s cooperation with international agencies to improve agricultural productivity and food quality standards.
During a visit in January, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu described the development as a turning point and emphasized that innovation and modern agricultural technologies could unlock the country’s farming potential despite the limitations of traditional practices.
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov stated that the government is collaborating with international companies to introduce advanced technologies and innovative solutions into major investment projects. He also highlighted progress by state-supported private producers in sectors such as livestock, poultry, greenhouse farming, dairy and meat processing, confectionery production, fruit juices, and processed vegetables. The conference attracted diplomats and business representatives from countries including Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Türkiye, China, and Russia.
Azerbaijani firms, including seed company Gözel Seeds, participated in the exhibition, while Russian company AgroExport announced plans to increase wheat flour exports to Turkmenistan to 400 tons per day. Officials also reported successful spring sowing campaigns for potatoes and other crops as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic food production and reduce reliance on imports.