At a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh, a bill was adopted aimed at developing the industrial production of medicinal plants. This document, as reported by VB.KG, will serve as the legal foundation for transitioning from the collection of wild herbs in mountainous areas to the establishment of specialized agricultural plantations. Experts view this initiative as an important step for Kyrgyzstan in the field of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Currently, Kyrgyzstan is one of the leading suppliers of wild raw materials, but uncontrolled harvesting of herbs in the ecosystems of the Tian Shan leads to the depletion of rare species and the deterioration of pasture conditions. Ecologists note that the reduction of vegetation cover in high-altitude areas negatively affects the forage base for wild animals, including the snow leopard, and also leads to soil erosion. Shifting production to agricultural land will significantly reduce the pressure on vulnerable mountain ecosystems.
The bill aims to transform the market from the traditional "gathered and sold" model to modern agricultural production with the implementation of certification and a raw material tracking system. According to analysts, this will not only help preserve rare plant species but also significantly increase the country's export potential in the growing global market for herbal medicines. For farmers in remote regions, cultivating medicinal crops can become a profitable alternative to traditional agriculture, especially in challenging climatic conditions.
However, experts warn that the success of this reform depends on a comprehensive approach that includes creating clear licensing mechanisms, providing farmers with quality seed material, and scientific monitoring of wild populations. Only with effective control and support for producers can Kyrgyzstan achieve a balance between economic benefits and the preservation of its unique natural heritage for future generations.
