| Abstract: |
This study investigates the transformation of livestock value chains in
peri-urban areas of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan,
focusing on the dynamics of livestock production, land use, and downstream
supply chains. Drawing on unique farm-level data and qualitative research, we
examine the limited progress of agri-food value chain modernisation in the
region. Findings reveal that while urban demand for meat and processed food
has grown, the smallholder-dominated livestock sector remains constrained by
deficient fodder resources, fragmented production, and limited access to
modern processing and retail channels. Despite massive growth of livestock
numbers kept in rural households, livestock intensification has progressed
only slowly, with large-scale enterprises representing a small but dynamic
segment. Our survey data shows that smallholders rely heavily on informal
market arrangements and local sales channels, often constrained by
insufficient vertical coordination and limited quality enforcement. Large
enterprises and feedlots often benefit from government support and exhibit
advanced integration, with enhanced genetics, own processing plants, and
branded retailing. This bifurcated structure in the livestock sector
underscores challenges in transitioning toward modern value chains. Government
interventions, including subsidies and cooperative development, have largely
failed to integrate smallholders or address systemic bottlenecks. We discuss
the options for inclusive strategies, such as strengthening public governance
or leveraging medium-scale farmers. Our findings highlight the delayed
transformation of Central Asia's livestock value chains compared to other
emerging economies. We suggest that in Central Asia, intensive larger farms
have some potentials to overcome many of the trade-offs inherent in the
prevailing smallholder livestock systems. |