The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has seen notable growth in sugar production, with Kyrgyzstan leading this increase. According to data from the Eurasian Sugar Association, sugar production in the EAEU member countries grew significantly in 2023, reaching a total of 7.3 million tons — a rise of 740,000 tons compared to the previous year. This translates to a 1.5% increase, with the most substantial growth recorded in Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan’s sugar factories produced 38.3 thousand tons of sugar, marking the highest production level in the past four years and indicating a surge in the country’s agricultural and food processing industries. This significant increase positions Kyrgyzstan as the top growth leader in sugar production within the EAEU.

Russia remains the largest sugar producer in the EAEU, with a production total exceeding 3.7 million tons, reflecting an increase of 36,000 tons over 2022. Belarus also saw a rise in sugar production, reaching 296.2 thousand tons, a growth of 12.4 thousand tons. Kazakhstan produced 20.8 thousand tons of sugar, marking an increase of 5.3 thousand tons over the previous year.

Currently, 66 companies are engaged in processing sugar beets across the EAEU: 57 in Russia, four in Belarus, three in Kazakhstan, and two in Kyrgyzstan. Analysts note that the increase in sugar production across EAEU countries helps reduce reliance on imports and stabilizes prices within domestic markets. The strong growth in Kyrgyzstan also indicates significant development within its agricultural sector, along with increased investments in food processing.

Reports suggest that expanding sugar production capabilities and modernizing beet processing technologies across the EAEU countries will continue to bolster the region’s self-sufficiency and strengthen the internal food market. Kyrgyz factories are consistently expanding capacity, supporting employment, and driving economic development in the country. It is expected that the ongoing expansion in production capacity and improved processing technologies will foster further growth in the sugar industry in the years to come.