The correspondent of Turmush decided to find out the prices for dried apricots in this region.
Since most residents are engaged in growing apricots and agriculture, a large quantity of products regularly arrives at the markets. Prices vary depending on the specific bazaar, reflecting the level of labor of the farmers. Currently, the cost has significantly increased compared to previous periods: some varieties reach 500 soms.
“Dried ‘kandek’ costs up to 250 soms depending on quality. The ‘bargek’ variety is priced at 350–450 soms, with the most expensive one sold for 410 soms. Black apricots range from 100 to 400 soms, and the most expensive specimen was sold for 380 soms,” shares local resident Jumantai Tajibai uulu.
Unprocessed ‘kandek’ can be purchased starting from 150 soms. There is also a variety called ‘snikers’ — this is unprocessed ‘bargek’ with the kernel added, and its price can reach 400 soms. Prices for apricots change every week, and in recent days there has been a slight increase compared to previous sales.
The main buyers are intermediaries who then transport the products to Osh, Bishkek, and neighboring countries.
In the Batken region, apricot markets are located in two places: in the city of Batken and in the village of Kara-Bak.
Reference
The ‘bargek’ variety is a dried apricot without a pit.
To prepare it, apricots are laid out, smoked, and covered with polyethylene for a day. After that, they change color and must dry in the sun. The pit is removed, and they are laid out again for drying.
The drying process for ‘bargek’ takes about a week.
The ‘kandek’ variety is a dried apricot with a pit, considered one of the sweetest and oldest in Tajikistan (its name translates to ‘sugar’). Small fruits dry on the tree and have a natural brown or dark orange color; they are beneficial for the heart and rich in potassium and vitamins.
