Kazakhstan has been expanding its agricultural exports in recent years, particularly in the meat industry. However, in 2024, lamb exports to China were halted. The Kazakh Ministry of Agriculture has provided an explanation for the restrictions.

A trade agreement signed in 2018 allowed nine regions of Kazakhstan to export lamb to China. However, in 2023, the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) imposed restrictions on frozen lamb imports from Kazakhstan. The reason cited was the detection of sheep pox in the country, a contagious viral disease affecting livestock.

To address this issue, the Kazakh Ministry of Agriculture initiated negotiations with Chinese authorities. A formal request was sent to GACC, urging a reconsideration of the ban. Additionally, a specialized working group was established to expedite the resolution of the problem.

During Agriculture Minister Aidarbek Saparov’s visit to China, two meetings were held with Chinese officials. Discussions focused on assessing the health risks posed by sheep pox and determining the necessary measures to lift the restrictions. Chinese authorities requested additional data on the epidemiological situation before making a final decision.

Currently, Kazakhstan continues exporting lamb to Uzbekistan, the UAE, and Iran. The government hopes that once all health and safety requirements are met, the Chinese market will reopen for Kazakh meat producers.