The summer of 2025 proved a true test for Shymkent's farmers. For several months, the metropolis had not seen any rain, and the July heatwave hit agriculture particularly hard. Under these conditions, water shortages became one of the main challenges of the season. However, despite all the difficulties, farmers were able not only to preserve their harvest but also to exceed last year's figures. Official data released on August 25 confirmed that the city's food security remains under control.

In 2024, 26,000 hectares of land in the metropolis were allocated for agricultural crops. However, anticipating a dry season, farmers deliberately reduced the area under cultivation to 23,000 hectares this year. This tactic allowed for more efficient use of water and resources and, most importantly, a focus on product quality. As a result, the average yield of grain and oilseed crops was almost 10 centners per hectare, higher than last year's figures.

Of the total area, 7,000 hectares were planted with grain crops, 3,300 hectares with oilseeds, and approximately 1,800 hectares with vegetables and melons. Remarkably, vegetable growers demonstrated particular resilience to adverse weather conditions this season. Greenhouse complexes played a significant role: within the city limits, their total area now amounts to approximately 100 hectares. This not only increased the volume of fresh produce but also kept market prices from fluctuating sharply.

Infrastructure projects also contributed significantly to the success of the season. This year, five investment projects worth a total of 12.2 billion tenge were launched in Shymkent. One of them is already operational: a modern warehouse complex for storing 90,000 tons of agricultural produce. This facility significantly reduces losses and ensures an uninterrupted supply of vegetables and grain during the off-season. The project received government support, with a preferential loan of approximately one billion tenge provided for its implementation.

An equally important event was the start of construction on the region's largest greenhouse complex. Alsera KZ has begun implementing the $650 million project. It will be implemented in two phases: the first is scheduled for completion in 2026, and the second is scheduled for the next five years. Ultimately, Shymkent will gain a modern agro-industrial center capable of producing up to 155,000 tons of vegetable produce annually. Furthermore, the creation of 5,000 new jobs is planned, providing significant social support to the metropolis.

Comparing this year's results with previous seasons, the difference is clear. In 2023, the yield was largely dependent on abundant spring rains. While the sown area was larger, some production was lost due to uneven moisture distribution and outdated farming methods. In 2024, 26,000 hectares were sown, but the average yield was lower than current levels. This clearly demonstrated that the amount of land is not always decisive—proper planning and the efficient use of each hectare are far more important.

The year 2025 can be considered a turning point in this regard. A reduction in cultivated areas and the transition to modern agricultural technologies helped offset unfavorable climatic conditions. Rational land allocation became a factor of sustainability, and state support and investment provided a solid foundation for future development.

City authorities emphasize that the main task now is not only to harvest but also to manage it wisely. Modern warehouses and logistics centers should minimize losses, and preferential lending programs allow farmers to invest in equipment upgrades and the implementation of drip irrigation systems. In the face of climate change, such measures are becoming vital.

Government attention also remains a significant incentive. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has repeatedly emphasized that food security is a strategic priority. This is especially relevant for a metropolis like Shymkent, where the population is constantly growing. Investments in greenhouse complexes and warehouse capacity ensure that even in drought-prone years, the city will not run out of vegetables and grain.

Thus, Shymkent's agriculture has demonstrated that sound land management, the introduction of new technologies, and government support can compensate for even extreme climatic conditions. The 2025 season demonstrated that sustainable development is possible with a comprehensive approach—from rational land allocation to the creation of modern production facilities.

Farmers still face many challenges: expanding exports, developing processing, and implementing more advanced irrigation systems. But we can already confidently say that this year's experience will serve as a benchmark for future generations of farmers. After all, Shymkent has proven that even in the most challenging conditions, the land can feed people—if it is managed carefully and wisely.