Kazakhstan diversifies grain export markets

Kazakhstan is increasing exports of newly harvested grain and gradually expanding its shipment destinations, strengthening its presence in Asian markets and developing alternative routes to Europe and North Africa. According to national railway company Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, the country exported 2.262 mln tons of grain in September–October 2026, up 2% compared to the same period of the previous season.

The strongest growth was recorded in shipments to China, where exports increased 2.6 times, from 145 thsd tons to 373 thsd tons. Deliveries to Afghanistan rose 1.9 times to 200 thsd tons, compared to 104 thsd tons a year earlier. Meanwhile, exports to traditional markets increased by 1.2% to 1.43 mln tons. In particular, Uzbekistan imported 1.063 mln tons of grain, while Tajikistan purchased 351 thsd tons.

In January–September 2026, Kazakhstan’s total wheat exports reached 6.1 mln tons, up 15% from 5.3 mln tons a year earlier. Uzbekistan remained the largest buyer, importing 3.8 mln tons of wheat, a 49% year-on-year increase. Exports to Tajikistan rose by 13.6% to 1 mln tons, while shipments to Afghanistan increased 3.4 times to 663 thsd tons.

At the same time, Kazakhstan is expanding its presence in alternative markets. During the first nine months of 2026, the country exported 23.3 thsd tons of wheat to Tunisia and 6 thsd tons to France. Shipments to Iran increased to 67 thsd tons. Although export volumes to these destinations remain relatively small compared to traditional buyers, their development reflects Kazakhstan’s efforts to diversify sales channels and reduce dependence on individual regional markets.

Rising exports are also important for Kazakhstan’s domestic grain logistics. Higher shipments in September–October allow farmers to free up grain storage capacity for the new harvest and recover working capital more quickly. Meanwhile, further diversification of export destinations will depend on transport infrastructure development, access to international routes, and the competitiveness of Kazakh grain in more distant markets.

Tags: Kazakhstan, export, grain, EU, wheat, Afghanistan, China