The modernization of Kazakhstan’s agribusiness sector through the introduction of information systems including the Collect Mobile application for milk processors, was one of the themes at the workshop, which was attended by 70 delegates from 16 provinces of Kazakhstan, including senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan and domestic dairy producers.
The EBRD and FAO reported on the implementation results of a joint sector promotion project in Kazakhstan.
Importance of milk supply
The study offered an analysis of the production of value-added dairy products and the introduction of modern digital solutions, like geographic information system (GIS), across all Kazakh dairy enterprises.
Experts from FAO and the Dairy Union explained the importance of introducing a new system of milk supply and collection with emphasis on the quality of raw milk and associated products.
“Transparent and accurate information on the raw milk supply chain will facilitate investments and promote better policy dialogue in Kazakhstan’s dairy sector,” said Victoria Zinchuk, head of agribusiness advisory at the EBRD.
“A steady and predictable flow of high-quality milk will give companies incentives to upgrade their facilities and expand their operations. Farmers will also be more inclined to modernize their facilities, improve their grazing lands and milk production practices if the market is more reliable,” she said.
Digital solutions
Inna Punda, agribusiness specialist, investment centre, FAO, said answers were given to priority issues related to milk collection in Kazakhstan.
“Satellite images and various digital solutions are now at milk processing companies’ disposal. They can help make the right decisions, which can have an immediate impact on the quality of milk. The Collect Mobile application could be a one-stop-shop for them,” Punda said.