On January 16, the parliamentary group "Ala-Too" held a meeting to discuss the situation in the garment industry, employment, and the economy as a whole. Members of the group, as well as representatives from the garment sector and relevant government structures, participated in the meeting.
Participants emphasized that the garment sector is currently facing serious difficulties, particularly due to limited access to the Russian market and issues in interacting with the Wildberries marketplace. Additionally, the lack of a laboratory base and certification system hinders entry into European markets. They believe that more than 3,000 garment workshops have closed, leaving thousands of people unemployed. In light of these circumstances, they appealed to the government for assistance.
During the discussion, Deputy Jumabek Salymbekov requested information from the Minister of Economy and Commerce regarding the number of closed enterprises in this sector, pointing out the decline in production volumes and worsening competitiveness. "What measures is the ministry taking to address these issues?" he clarified, reminding that Kyrgyzstan is part of the EAEU.
Minister of Economy and Commerce Bakyt Sydykov confirmed that work is currently underway to improve interaction with Wildberries.
Deputy Seyidbek Atambaev raised the issue of attracting foreign specialists from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan to the garment sector. Deputy Talaybek Masabirov also emphasized the need to create a logistics center and implement preferential loans for garment enterprises. In response, Minister Sydykov stated that the Wildberries logistics center is planned to be completed by 2028. Deputy Bolotbek Borbiev added that garment production should be removed from the "shadow" economy.
Deputy Cholpon Esenamanova touched on issues related to import rules to Russia, product labeling, and VAT. Deputy Nilufer Alimjanova noted the need for comprehensive work on market diversification for local garment products. Deputy Azamzhan Jalilov emphasized that Kyrgyzstan should make the most of its economic opportunities as a member of the EAEU. Deputy Azamat Isiraikov added that conditions need to be created for the development of domestic producers and to resolve issues with transport logistics and sales markets.
As a result of the discussion, the deputies of the "Ala-Too" group developed a number of recommendations for the Cabinet of Ministers, including issues of preferential lending and market diversification.
