Crisis Can Become an Opportunity. Kyrgyz Tailors are Seeking New Markets

Владислав Вислоцкий Economy
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Problems with the export of textile products to Russia have become a serious lesson for Kyrgyz businesses. Without a complete set of documents and alternative sales channels, even successful companies find themselves in a vulnerable position. Over the course of four months, more than 2,000 production workshops closed, leaving hundreds of workers without means of livelihood.

The key condition for resuming operations has been the implementation of a "white" business model with full documentation support. Producers have begun to accept these requirements and are actively working on legalization. Nevertheless, the realization that relying solely on one market is a strategic mistake came to them later.

Limitations of a Single Market: A Lesson for Entrepreneurs

“Kyrgyz tailors have successfully worked with Russian partners for many years. However, difficulties have now arisen at the border. Therefore, we, the Association of Tailors of Kyrgyzstan, are not only addressing border issues but also exploring new markets,” said Dilaramkan Duyshieva, head of the association.

She emphasizes that the need for diversification was known before, but the current situation has made it extremely important — enterprises continue to operate, but workshops are closing. A vivid example of the significance of this approach was a recent forum in Singapore. “It was a very illustrative experience. Successful companies in Singapore work with 20 types of international certifications, which opens doors for them worldwide. Their approach, which takes into account the green economy and material safety, is exactly the 'white', transparent, and competitive model we should strive for. We are currently working on obtaining just one of these certifications. This has confirmed our understanding of the need to organize documents and think globally,” Duyshieva shared her impressions.

The experience of other companies demonstrates possible pathways. Some Kyrgyz entrepreneurs are already working with Poland, sourcing raw materials from Central Asia, producing clothing in Ukraine, and selling it there as well.

“We have clients from Latvia who buy goods at 'Dordoi' and send them to Europe via Moscow without any problems. Such examples prove that there are alternatives that need to be thoroughly explored and adapted,” she summarizes.

A New Vector: Arab Countries as a Prospect

Arab countries are viewed as one of the most promising directions. Talantbek Ernazarov, an international expert on halal standards and certification, considers this market optimal for Kyrgyz tailors.

“We are studying the market of Arab countries to open new directions. Why them? First, the logistics are more understandable and accessible. Secondly, Kyrgyzstan currently has good relations with Arab states. Thirdly, our tailors already have experience in producing quality products that are in demand in this region, such as shawls and long dresses,” the expert explains.

Additionally, he points out a new but promising channel of interaction — tourism: “There are now many tourists from these countries in Kyrgyzstan. We have started to interact more actively with guests and found that they have interesting commercial proposals and a desire to cooperate.”

Ernazarov emphasizes the importance of diversification: “One cannot depend on a single market. If one closes, it is necessary to have several new ones in mind. The population of Arab countries is large, and the demand for products is stable, so I consider this market optimal for us.”

The crisis in the Russian direction is prompting Kyrgyz tailors to rethink their business models. The focus is shifting towards creating a transparent and diversified business. Working with documents, studying international standards, seeking partners worldwide — from Arab countries to the USA — and mastering digital platforms are becoming crucial areas of development.

The industry, going through a difficult period, strives not only to recover but also to become more resilient, competitive, and integrated into the global economy.
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