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Action track #5 build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress • Ensuring that farmers have the freedom to choose what to grow, where to grow it, whom to sell it to, and at what price, is an urgent issue for Uzbekistan. The more economic freedom the manufacturing sector has, the more stable and sustainable the economy will be. In order to achieve economic freedom, knowledge is necessary. We would like to request the donor community to support this matter. • Food supply reservation storage must be improved immediately to provide enough food for the population. Due to improper storag... Read moree and mismanagement of the reservation system, we have failed to provide enough food for the population. For instance, this year we had a problem with potato supply, and next year will be onions. I hope the respective agency takes necessary action to address these events. Read less

• Demand-based Diversification of the Horticulture While horticultural diversification has attracted international attention and support from many donors in Uzbekistan, careful discussion is needed on what varieties should be diversified. It needs to be looked at comprehensively, reflecting domestic demand and packages that include funding and even infrastructure support for entering the market for other species. Proper infrastructure for proper sales of products should be based on accountability to expand the network, with preservation of the more prominent players at the market. • Lack o... Read moref the Quarantine and Inspection Control Aspect Before making conclusions about food safety, it would be advisable to strengthen and check reports regarding quarantine and inspection control. Although there are instructions for checking products in the laboratory, farmers and other agricultural food producers are not fully aware of these instructions. Due to the massive volume of food productions, it is challenging to regulate and control it using only specialists. Also, as the excessive and improper use of pesticides is a serious issue, we need to reinforce measures about pesticide usage. While there are some sanitation stations in bazaars, technical specialists noticed that we need to control the volume of pesticide usage per region and district. • Adverse Effects of the Palm Oil Usage Palm tree oil is categorised as a type of vegetable oil, and it is allowed to be used with equivalent standards. However, in many cases, some companies use vegetable oil instead of animal fats with purpose to reduce the cost of production. . Often companies hide what oil they use. The role of the state in preventing paving on the part of food producers is very important here. The Center for Hygiene Agency is currently working with the Ministries on this possible usage, including the pros and cons of used cooking oils in food manufacturing. We are engaging a number of local and international experts and developing technical regulations on these issues. • Limited Understanding of the Definition of Food Security While we are now working on adopting a new strategy on food security in Uzbekistan with international indicators, there are issues related to the limited understanding and knowledge about what food security is. Food security is normally understood as ensuring sufficient food for all populations. However, it must include wider aspects and broader definitions, such as inclusiveness, equitable access, and physical access to nutrition. As Uzbekistan is a landlocked country, we do not have easy access to seafood, and access should be ensured for rural populations, as well as rights to land ownership and access to water resources. All these aspects should be included in the food security definition. It is necessary to ensure access to lands for vulnerable groups who do not have enough capital. • Need for a Coordinated Approach We need to implement improvement measures based on scientific proof and careful consideration of local needs and markets. We have recently been working on bringing in unconventional plants from South America and adapting them to the local soil. Since this plant contains many nutrients and is very useful for the human body, we are conducting a test project in Karakalpakstan. Last year, we submitted this project to the President, but when we proposed it to the farmers, they refused to produce it, saying there was no market for this product yet. A programme that does not take into account the local context, even if it is scientifically proven to be effective, cannot be an effective solution. Read less

The Dialogue began with a brief overview of the two sub-national dialogues conducted in Nukus and Namangan. Based on the 5 Action Tracks –1) Ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all; 2) Shift to sustainable consumption patterns; 3) Boost nature-positive production; 4) Advance equitable livelihoods; 5) Build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress— the issues identified and suggestions proposed were presented to all participants to consolidate country-level commitments and actions and shape the pathway to a sustainable national food system for the coming decade. In the nex... Read moret session, the international donor organizations in Uzbekistan, including the European Union (EU), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), presented their diverse roles and activities within sustainable food systems and reconfirmed their commitment to supporting agriculture and food industries in Uzbekistan. The EU emphasised the importance of strengthening partnerships to take on ambitious goals and targets, focusing on the newly adopted Strategy of modernization of the food sector 2020-2030. The EU also highlighted the necessity for Uzbekistan to develop a quality supply chain to be more competitive in the export market. As agriculture is an essential part of Uzbekistan’s economy, the EU introduced a Generalized Scheme of Preference Plus (GSP+) in April 2021, a special incentive for sustainable development and good governance. JICA underlined four major projects in the agricultural sector, focusing on developing innovative climate resilient technologies for monitoring/controlling water use efficiency for crop productivity in the Aral Sea Region. To target more small-scale farmers, JICA also prepared new procedures by utilizing counterpart funds, such as IFAD's loan schemes for small households and the National Farmers' Councils Fund. USAID explained the forthcoming five-year agribusiness development project, which will run from June 2025. USAID will introduce innovative business management practices and co-finance investments in new technologies to support farmers and agribusinesses to produce and add value to safe, quality, and environmentally sound agricultural products. USAID also offered the opportunity of a first agribusiness development fund. It allocated 2 million USD to support Uzbek agribusiness by co-financing and investing in new technologies. IsDB delivered a radical transformation of their business model; "from the bank of development to bank of the developer," to achieve sustainable food systems and catalyze investment in the agriculture sector. IsDB also provided an overview of the Agriculture and Rural Development Sector Policy and explained that to mainstream the strategy into IsDB operation related to the agricultural system and agriculture sector it will seek strong connections with member countries in various sectors. In the thematic discussion session, the floor was open to all participants, and a diverse array of stakeholders, including those involved in food hygiene, academic research, and law contributed the Dialogue and explored options for collective action. Joint work on the formulation of proposals and recommendations was conducted, taking into account the results of all stages, for further submission to the organizing committee to the Summit. In the concluding remarks, the Government of Uzbekistan highlighted that the multi-stakeholder Dialogue process would continue in the country even after the culmination of the global Food Systems Summit in September. Cognizant of existing strong food system cooperation internally and externally, the Government also underlined Uzbekistan's continuous commitment to demonstrating leadership in the forthcoming global dialogue session. The outcomes of the dialogues will contribute to the national food systems transformation pathway in the coming months and years. Read less

Role of International Development Organizations in Sustainability of the Food Systems in Uzbekistan European Union (EU) • The EU emphasised the importance of strengthening partnerships to take on ambitious goals and targets, focusing on the newly adopted Strategy of modernization of the food sector 2020-2030, the foundation of their cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture. • As of March 2020, Uzbekistan liberalised the cotton market; the EU strongly supported this decision as a significant step toward ending child and forced labour in the country's cotton harvest. • The EU also high... Read morelighted the necessity for Uzbekistan to develop a quality supply chain to be more competitive in the export market. As agriculture is an essential part of Uzbekistan’s economy, the EU started a Generalized Scheme of Preference Plus (GSP+) in April 2021. It slashes tariffs to 0% for vulnerable low and lower-middle-income countries that implement 27 international conventions related to human rights, labour rights, protection of the environment and good governance. • Last year, the EU developed two essential strategies on food security and nutrition and introducing an information and statistic systems into the agri-food sector. • In cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Education, the EU also focuses on skills development in the agricultural sector by introducing new technology and an agricultural knowledge information system. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) • JICA presented four major projects within the agricultural sector: 1) technical cooperation through the international joint research project: "Development of Innovative Climate resilient technologies for Monitoring Controlling of Water Use Efficiency and Impact of Salinization on Crop Productivity and Livelihood in Aral Sea Region" to establish a sustainable & internal-circular agriculture business model and improve resilience in small scale farmers. 2) grass-roots technical cooperation: "Improvement of Apple Cultivation Technology and Dissemination to the Farmers," which provided several workshops and training courses on Pilot orchards, apple trees, speed sprayers, refrigerators and other equipment. 3) grant aid: "the project for improvement of Locust Management (Phase 2)," which involves regional cooperation between the six Central Asian countries. 4) a loan programme: "Horticulture Value Chain Promotion Project" including credit Loans (a two-step loan to end-users, horticulture farmers and agriculture companies for processing, storage and logistics), and consulting services (capacity building for PFIs and technical assistance for end-users). • In order to target more small-scale farmers, JICA is preparing to introduce new procedures by utilising counterpart funds, such as IFAD's loan schemes for small households and the National Farmers' Councils Fund. United States Agency for International Development (USAID) • The new USAID five-year project; agribusiness development activity will run from June 2025. • It will introduce innovative business practices and co-finance investment for new technology to support farmers and agribusiness to produce and add value through safe, quality, and environmentally sound agricultural products, promoting access to new markets, and increasing sales and employment. • It also focuses on building skills among women and youth to launch their agribusiness and secure technical and management level jobs for them. USAID is partnering with the Uzbek agricultural University and institute to introduce a new practical curriculum and with the Ministry of Agriculture and private sector agricultural extension service providers to build skills and capacity that directly address farmers' needs. • Last week, USAID launched the first agribusiness development fund. It allocated 2 million USD to support Uzbek agribusiness by co-financing and investing in new technologies. Uzbek enterprise and/or non-governmental organization are eligible, and applicants must be covered by a minimum of 50% of the total cost of the project. Details are available here. Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) • Agriculture and Rural Development Sector Policy is a10-Year Strategy developed by IsDB. It is aguiding tool for IsDB investment in its Member Countries and it applies to all IsDB-financed projects. The policy provides a platform for synergies to promote sustainable, resilient, and equitable agriculture and rural development through the development of viable and profitable agriculture value chains and by promoting innovative Islamic finance. It has the following three objectives: 1) alleviate poverty and enhance food security; 2) enhance public–private partnerships towards the overall aim of sustainable, inclusive and equitable agriculture and rural development; and 3) create rural employment opportunities both in agriculture and the rural non-farming economy. • Under this policy, IsDB is undertaking a radical transformation of its business model to achieve sustainable food systems and catalyze investment in the agriculture sector. • IsDB is shifting to promote inclusive private sector participation, access to market and finance instruments and building human institutional capacity. • IsDB recognises that growth is essential for poverty reduction, and science, technology, and innovation are key to transforming Uzbekistan's agricultural food security system. • Uzbekistan can contribute to agricultural transformation and serve as a model for other countries, such as the horticulture value chain development project in the Aral Sea Region. 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Action track #1 ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all • It is essential to provide healthy and nutritious food for all populations. Recognising the high malnutrition level in Uzbekistan, more effort is required to improve education on health and nutrition by providing capacity building. It is also necessary to diversify agricultural products from the past monoculture approach that relies on the mass production of cotton and to produce organic foods by improving harvesting, logistics, and the marketing of agriculture. In this context, the recent expansion of horticulture, and the ... Read moredevelopment of greenhouses is noteworthy. In order to provide the population with nutritious foods and a robust value chain, we need support from international donors and IFIs and should pay close attention to different areas of development. • Developing behaviors that contribute to a healthy lifestyle is vital. The current culture of consumption and irrational food product usage should change, starting from primary education up to higher levels. We have to work with the population to strengthen awareness-raising. For instance, our festive customs usually involve inviting many guests for meals, but efforts will need to be made to provide healthier and more nutritious meals instead of the current oil- and meat-heavy diet. We also have to work with food producers to improve the quality of products which are served in cafeterias and restaurants. • Proper food waste management needs should be improved through logistics, including access to transportation agencies. Current efforts should be scaled up. Waste products from households should be properly collected as solid waste, and the introduction of proper waste sorting is an urgent task. Establishment and capacity building of a specialised agency to properly sort and dispose of waste is required. • We also need to rethink the way we advertise unhealthy products such as energy drinks and junk food. For instance, the U.S. Service for Agriculture Development provides health food certification from a specialised lab. Read less

Action track #2 shift to sustainable consumption patterns • It is critical to transform farms to produce green and ecological products without using excessive pesticides to meet international standards and increase competitiveness in the market. Food processing enterprises, farmers and retails, including different food producers, restaurants, and cafeterias have to provide and maintain proper hygiene conditions to meet international standards. Furthermore, proper food management, including food disposal and expired food control, must be improved. • There was an intensive discussion about t... Read morerans fats usage. On 10 November 2020, the Government adopted regulation No.4780 and the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Economy and Poverty Reduction, and the Ministry of Finance are working to implement it.. A new set of standards for used cooking oil usage has been introduced based on this newly drafted law. Starting from 2021, the use of trans fats in the food manufacturing processes as well as the import of food items should be limited. The law introduced a ban on the import of items manufactured using used cooking oils in food production in Uzbekistan. If the company starts importing them, it will be a violation of legislation and sanctions will be imposed. Not only Uzbekistan, but the whole of academia has identified the negative consequences of using trans fats. The trans fats in the food industry and their import will be banned by 2025, regardless whether this is in raw materials or finished materials. Read less

Action track #3 boost nature- positive Production • As today's agricultural production processes are often undercover, it is necessary to involve the entire value chain to further promote organic farming efforts. We have to improve irrigation, taking into account the analysis of the soil level of precipitation and provide proper safety mechanisms. The greenhouse's water-saving technology and qualitative infrastructure are also essential to protecting plants from different diseases, insects, and pests. • In terms of legislation, food quality and safety are subject to different international... Read more standards, conventions, and agreements, and confusing them can cause problems. For example, the WHO has an agreement on hygiene measures, which includes food security, pesticides, microbiology, and animal diseases. Food security mainly relates to human health with regard to biological and chemical hazards, and there are also international standards for food security parameters. Although there are reporting requirements for member countries for each area of information, Uzbekistan's commitment is limited due to the limited data collection capacity of the industry, and we hope that this will change in the future. Fortunately, however, there is no need to start from scratch; standards already exist. We need a unified national policy and strategy for the agricultural sector, integrating everything and functional changes at the national legal level. Read less

The following suggestions were presented; • Conduct an assessment to determine the level of needs of low-income families. The assessment should distinguish between three levels of need and help build strategies to provide aid for families in these three levels. • Establish a supervision system to determine to whom subsidies and benefits will be allocated and how this aid is being utilized (to understand if it was effective/inefficient). • Support exemptions from taxes and other utility bills for low-income families to ensure these families can afford proper nutrition. • Create capacity... Read more building seminars for low-income families that will help them develop entrepreneurship and support themselves in the future. • Legal protection for low-income families should be established. Read less

• Debt to the next generation While many wish lists were put forward, it is necessary to secure adequate financial resources to implement these sustainable food systems ideas. Particularly, many participants suggested investing the money in sustainable agricultural techniques, such as organic cultivators and agroecological practices, and increasing subsidies to small-scale farmers. However, it is also important to recognize that we are saddling the next generation with a huge debt, even if it is to build sustainable food systems. In order to secure financial resources, it is inevitable to bo... Read morerrow money. Therefore, we need to have a clear strategy for debt repayment and a return on investment strategy. If we fail to create a system where debt for future generations will always have a positive effect, we will just add to the next generation's burden. • Lack of guidance on crop rotation Crop rotation is a sustainable farming practices in which the same land is used to grow different crops in successive seasons or years to prevent erosion and increase the fertility of the land. Since the effects have been scientifically proven, the Government recommends crop rotation, such as soybeans, grains and corns. However, while the logic itself is very rational, the production of soybeans requires specific machinery, which is also the case for grain and corn cultivation. To make matters worse, a single farmer may not know the best way to grow each individual crop well. Even a sustainable and reasonable policy requires detailed support tailored to the needs and circumstances of local people. • Technology and environmental issue Much of the agricultural technology and machinery in use today are already outdated, which negatively impacts on the environment, including the increase of carbon emissions and waste products. While it is essential to introduce new agricultural machinery in the future, it is impossible to replace it all at once. Thus, it is important to balance the impact on the environment and cost of the modern machinery. We need to think about how we can improve productivity and reduce environmental impact at the same time. • Quality issues for the vulnerable community’s support Although several aid programmes have already been provided to vulnerable communities, a lack of educational opportunities has prevented low-income families from fully utilizing aid benefits. For instance, a family receives a greenhouse to grow lemons as a part of the aid programme. However, the family does not have enough knowledge to grow lemons. Therefore, a careful needs assessment is essential to respond to the various needs and different income levels of vulnerable communities. Inter-sectoral coordination and cooperation need to accelerate further to prevent the redundancy of similar projects and to share knowledge and expertise. Read less

The Dialogue began with a brief overview of the Agriculture Development Strategy of Uzbekistan for 2020-2030, sharing nine priority areas identified by the Government; 1) Food security for the population, 2) Natural resource use for environmental protection, 3) Development of agricultural sciences, education, information and counselling services, 4) Convenient agribusiness to improve value chains, 5) Modernizing the Public administration systems, 6) Development of Rural Areas, 7) Reducing State intervention and increasing investment, 8) Diversifying government spending, and 9) Development of a... Read more transparent system of statistics. One of the highlights of this new strategy is to introduce indicators to monitor progress. In the thematic discussion session, participants were divided into five groups based on the five Action Tracks; 1) Ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all; 2) Shift to sustainable consumption patterns; 3) Boost nature-positive production; 4) Advance equitable livelihoods; 5) Build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress. They explored options for collective action that can contribute via national pathways to sustainable food systems. The first action track (Ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all) focused on the challenges on the local consumption model and diet, particularly on the excessive intake of palm oils and junk foods among the young population. Issues of food management regarding expired food oversight and shortage of cold storage facilities were also identified. As a way forward, the group proposed strengthening awareness-raising activities to change perceptions and create good habits around balanced healthy diets and proper nutrition among youth and children, as well as establishing a food inspection monitoring system. The second action track (Shift to sustainable consumption patterns) focused attention on the importance of needs assessment in vulnerable communities as well as food waste management. The group suggested developing a responsive, inclusive policy for vulnerable communities, such as providing subsidies and reducing food transportation costs by improving the productivity of the food value chain. The third action track (Boost nature-positive production) identified issues on unsustainable soil productivity, water resource management, disposal of food packaging, and outdated agricultural machinery that causes adverse environmental effects instead of efficiency. The group offered various proposals to preserve scarce resources, including the use of natural fertilizers, drip irrigation systems, proper disposal labelling, and eco-friendly certification. The fourth action track (Advance equitable livelihoods) addressed how to respond to various needs and ensure inclusiveness by providing uniform support. The group was concerned about farmers who do not have freedom of choice due to the monopoly of the market by several enterprises and the state procurement system. The current situation in which uniform aid does not reflect the needs of the people also causes problems. The group suggested providing capacity building training for farmers based on their preference and skills and provide various suppliers and product options that the farmers can purchase based on their needs. The fifth action track (Build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress) took particular note of social and economic support for low-income families and aid effectiveness. The group emphasized the importance of conducting needs assessment and developing evidence-based policy for the effective supporting mechanisms. Furthermore, they suggested establishing an oversight system for the proper allocation and utilization of subsidies and benefits to maximize aid efficiency. Read less

1. Action track #1 Ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all The following issues were identified with regards to affordable and safe food products; • The intensive use of palm oil in food products leads to long-term health-related issues for the population. Due to its low price and ease of use, palm oil has become widely popular among local people without an understanding of its side effects. • Perceptions on balanced healthy diets, proper nutrition, especially among the youth and children, are poorly formed. Questions related to the importance of food safety and how to maintain a... Read more healthy diet often arise. Moreover, the media does not conduct enough healthy food marketing campaigns and awareness-raising activities. • Considering the statement above, excessive consumption of carbonated drinks, chips, crackers, and other unhealthy foods is prevalent in children. Advertisements for these types of foods contribute directly to this trend. The negative impact that television advertising plays on young people's preoccupation with junk food is significant. • Expired products are commonplace in the market, and the inspection control mechanism is not functioning well. As a result, there have been many cases of food poisoning. • The harvest from farms needs to be sold right away, as there is not enough efficient refrigeration equipment to store farm products for more extended periods without compromising their quality. 2. Action track #2 Shift to sustainable consumption patterns The following issues were identified with regards to strengthening the consumption value chain; • While there are currently several support measures in place for vulnerable communities, they are one-size-fits-all and do not reflect the diverse needs of these communities due to a lack of needs assessment among vulnerable communities. This type of assessment could help establish evidence-based policies that reflect their needs and support them effectively to gain access to nutritious foods. • The supply chain process of food production has resulted in a large amount of food waste, which in turn drives up the price of food. • Much food loss is also caused by the lack of proper food storage, especially freezing storage, during the harvest season, which prevents the food from maintaining its freshness. 3. Action track #3 Boost nature- positive Production The following issues were identified with regards to the nature-positive production process; • Since many farmers are using excessive chemical fertilizers and overly cultivating their lands, it is essential to encourage effective land use and conversion to organic fertilizers. • Unsustainable water management and use, particularly in the irrigation process. • Much of the agricultural technology and machinery in use today is already outdated, which negatively impacts on the environment, including an increase in emissions and waste products. • Proper package handling of food products needs to be improved to ensure safety in the food transportation process. On the other hand, inappropriate handling and mass disposal of food packages are also a constant, uncontrolled problem. • Limited amount of land, and no authorization for sowing. 4. Action track #4 Advance equitable livelihoods The following issues were identified with regards to equitable value distribution; • As education and capacity building opportunities provided for farmers are predominantly export market-based, they do not reflect local needs. • Farmers cannot promptly purchase some products for processing (such as fertilizers). There is also a limited variety of products a farmer can purchase, and sometimes they depend on one supplier only. • Although local farmers should have the freedom to decide for themselves to whom they will sell the food they produce, most of their crops are sold to clusters. In a market economy, they should not be forced to sell only to clusters and the state procurement system. • There is a difference in income among various population groups, and we should actively seek methods of reducing this income gap. 5. Action track #5 Build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress The following issues were identified with regards to support for vulnerable groups; • Lack of educational opportunities for low-income families in the region leads them to not fully utilize the aid provided. For instance, a family receives a greenhouse to grow lemons as a part of the aid programme. However, the family does not have knowledge on growing lemons. Without careful planning consideration of aid programmes, the aid cannot benefit vulnerable communities. • Insufficient financing opportunities for low-income families. • The supply base for vulnerable communities is not developed. • There is no efficient system for supporting low-income families. Read less

1. National Food Security System The dialogue convener underlined three urgent major issues: • The urgent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural waste. While Uzbekistan emitted 32,423 gigagram greenhouse gas in 2017, a reduction of 5.53%, they revised the target to achieve a 10% reduction by 2021, which still poses a challenge. • Further improvement of the hunger level. In the 2020 Global Hunger Index, Uzbekistan ranked 30th out of 107 countries with sufficient data to calculate the 2020 GHI score. Since 2000, Uzbekistan has achieved low levels of hunger – 6.7%, down fro... Read morem 24.4%. • The recent dramatic growth of food imports from foreign countries has caused various issues in Uzbekistan. In 2020, food imports amounted to $1,750.7 million and 4,794.4 thousand products, mainly from Russia, Kirgizstan, Belarus, China and Malaysia. Law and institutional systems must be streamlined to integrate international standards and strengthen import policy. Based on nine priority areas in the agriculture development strategy, the Government set the following indicators and action points to address food system challenges. 1) Food Security: Increase the productivity of the average crop of cereal grains by 17 %; Increase total crop areas containing fodder crops by 1.1 %; Improve the average milk yield. 2) Favourable Agribusiness Environment: Increase the share of export from agricultural enterprises by 14 %; Improve village farming and strengthen the "Made in Uzbekistan" brand; Improve Uzbekistan's ranking (117) in 2018 in the World Bank's Logistic Performance Index (LPI); Increase the share of processed products by 21.1%; Increase workers from the food industry by 3 %. 3) Reduction of State Intervention and Promotion of Investment: Improve the ranking of 77 out of 101 countries in the World Bank EVA index; Increase capital investment (2021 exceeded the target for the year). 4) Improve Natural resources usage: Increase farmland by 1.0 million hectares; Increase farmland water-saving technologies by 2.3%; Reduce the percentage of saline soils; Increase Forest areas to 3.4 million hectares; Increase angiosperm land area by 39%. 5) Modernize Public administration systems: Proceed with the ongoing agricultural reform and strengthen accountability as per new Presidential Decrees; Revise the structure of state enterprises; Privatize public enterprises and accelerate the legal process. 6) Diversify government spending: Increase agriculture research costs by 0.0015%; Increase loans to $ 900 million; Strengthen medium-term budgeting. 7) Develop agricultural sciences, education, information and counselling services: raise the number of graduates who engage in agribusiness by 24 %; Increase farmers' access to advice and services by 5%; Increase the number of farmers who are satisfied with knowledge dissemination services and information counselling centres by 5%. 8) Development of Rural areas: Increase the number of manufactures (micro-firms) in rural areas by 57.8%; Increase the number of Women producers in rural areas by 8 %; Increase youth involvement in product development in rural areas by 8%. 9) Development of a transparent system of statistics: Improve the national statistics system, including agriculture food statistics. As outcomes of the national food security system overview, the Government of Uzbekistan will implement the following actions by the end of 2021. • Introduce a supply market mechanism for plant protection and mineral fertilizer by April 2021. • Initiate a food safety and national consumption programme by September 2021. • Create transparent mechanisms for the lease of land plots by September 2021. • Conduct climate change analysis and software development by December 2021. • Initiate a digital agriculture integration platform (e-agriculture uz) by December 2021. In order to achieve these ambitious targets, the Government emphasizes the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement. Moreover, Uzbekistan seeks to demonstrate strong initiative and leadership in the upcoming global dialogue session, cognizant of existing strong food system cooperation, internal and external. Read less

2. Action track #1 ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all The following suggestions were presented; • Introduce widespread media coverage on topics related to proper nutrition, promotion of healthy foods and balanced diets. Restrict excessive advertising of unhealthy foods, such as carbonated drinks, junk foods and allow more space for advertising natural farm producers and products. Awareness raising campaigns and education programmes in schools with a focus on local context is also essential, particularly for the younger generation. • Research the harm and benefits of palm oil... Read more. Disseminate information about this product to the public so that people can make a more informed decision on palm oil consumption. • Invest and develop the cold storage capacity and safe transportation system, such as fridge track, and proper packaging to maintain freshness. Capacity management during the high season is also critical to providing affordable food prices. • Establish a state inspection system for controlling the sale of expired products. • Revise import regulations. Read less

3. Action track #2 shift to sustainable consumption patterns The following suggestions were presented; • Provide one-time subsidies and resources for food purchases to vulnerable communities based on assessing their needs. • Create a means of reducing the cost for food transportation to enable a more efficient food harvest-production-processing value chain, particularly cold storage facilities during the high season. • Examine food value chains and determine ways to reduce waste products and food waste. • Raise awareness on the benefits of recycling. • Develop policies for creating f... Read moreavourable conditions for vulnerable communities. Read less

4. Action track #3 boost nature- positive Production The following suggestions were presented; • Use natural fertilizers for soil, including biomass and worms, to avoid the use of chemicals. • Cooperation with regional animal husbandry organizations could be helpful, as the biomass from animals can be retained and utilized for the soil. • To preserve water as a scarce resource, drip irrigation needs to be established. We must ensure water channels and riverbeds stay clean, and awareness should be raised in this regard. • Oblige producers to have labels about disposal sites. • Facilit... Read moreate the adoption of eco-certification, provide easier access to eco-certification agencies, and educate farmers and producers about the introduction of this certification system. • Preservation of soil from salinization. Read less

5. Action track #4 advance equitable livelihoods The following suggestions were presented; • Provide educational opportunities for farmers based on their preferences and skillsets, not just based on market conditions and export orientation. • Offer a variety of suppliers and products a farmer can purchase for use. Control the monopolization of this industry. • Farmers should be given the power to decide where to sell, to which cluster, etc. • Farmers should have the freedom to grow what they want.

6. Action track #5 build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress Suggestions: • Teaching the population to practice farming, raising the culture of farming practice among the general population. • The motivation of the general population to engage in agriculture (farming) will allow households to be self-sufficient in some agricultural products. • Digitalization of food markets. • Diversification of types of crops. • Improvement of agricultural logistics. • The universal use of food products. • Use of international experience in the production of agricultural products (t... Read moreransition to more financially efficient production through the use of innovative technologies. • Creation of greenhouses with the help of state support. • Subsidies in agriculture. • Processing of products. • Decent salaries. The problem of the departure of specialists, for example, agronomists and farmers, to Kazakhstan, where wages are higher than in Uzbekistan. • Creation of a state programme for internship for specialists, people in business, farmers abroad. • Increase dietary diversity. Cooking, for example, bread made from other foods (corn flour). Production of prepared food (semi-finished products). • Development of resource-saving technologies. Solar energy. Read less

• Lack of blueprint Although many wish lists were put forward, there was no clear implementation plan on how to take a balanced approach to an incompatible but inter-linked agenda with limited resources. It is also unclear how to secure the financial resources to achieve sustainable food systems. • Creation of an Agromarketing department Currently, agro marketing is not developed in Uzbekistan, and a lack of up-to-date information on prices and market conditions forces producers to sell their products to intermediaries at a significantly lower price. Cognizant that Dehkan farms account for... Read more 70 % of total agricultural output, it is necessary to pursue an agro-marketing policy throughout the country and create a single database on the demand and supply of agricultural products in markets across the whole region, with current prices, providing timely information to farmers and dehkans. A proposal was made to create an Agromarketing department within the structure of the Ministry of Agriculture. • Lack of reliable databases and statistics It is necessary to provide statistical clarity. Figures from official statistics do not correspond to reality, which hinders the adoption of appropriate decisions on the provision of food. Food price statistics should be based on market prices. For example, although 70 % of the total volume of agricultural products and 90 % of livestock products in the country are produced by dehkan farms, they are only allocated 14 % of the total land. Agriculture production would increase if we applied a scientific approach. Therefore, it is necessary to introduce a transparent statistical system that identifies the activities of private household plots. • Review and diversification of crops in Karakalpakstan Cotton production currently consists of 40% of the total production in Karakalpakstan. Although the total cost of growing 1 hectare of cotton is 12 million soums, the profit generated was only 9 million soums per hectare, as 1 ton of cotton cost 4.5 million soums last year. Therefore, it is necessary to reconsider the distribution of crop types in Karakalpakstan, considering local conditions. • Introduction of modern machinery and equitable distribution mechanism Many people emphasized that new machinery and equipment, such as cultivators, need to be imported urgently to improve agricultural productivity and accelerate the sustainable food system. However, before providing machinery to farmers, it is essential to consider an adequate distribution mechanism to respond to the diverse needs of farmers. For example, it is not always economically rational or viable for small farmers to install expensive machinery. In this case, small farmers need come together to share one machine, or one farmer takes the machine and leases it to others. It is crucial to consider the best implementation procedure beforehand. • Technology and environmental issue The introduction of laser equalizer equipment will contribute to optimizing water usage and improving efficiency. However, laser equalizers require a considerable amount of diesel fuel, to which farmers have no access. Before we push ahead with the introduction of advanced technologies to improve efficiency, we should carefully consider the environmental impact of such technologies. We need to think about how we can improve productivity and reduce environmental impact at the same time. • Feasibility of scaling up green resource use approach Nobody denies the importance of developing resource-saving technology and reliable data and statistics, particularly laboratory analysis and mapping of the soil and water quality at the district-farm level which might help farmers grow the right crop in the right place. However, it is doubtful whether we have a sufficient number of mandated organizations to render such services. Although farmers can use a few affordable tools and approaches, nothing takes place on a broader scale. A detailed scale-up plan should be put in place to stimulate and transform land users to apply 'green' approaches to resource use. • Issue of law enforcement and inclusivity We need to ensure the implementation and enforcement of the law, as the legal solutions already provided have not reached the lower levels of the population. All the issues pointed out are also already identified and well-regulated in the Government. Therefore, we must consider and put our effort into ensuring that the law is effective for everyone, leaving no one behind. Read less

1.Action track #1 Ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all •A big challenge is rooted in Uzbekistan's food culture and eating habits. In most Central Asian Countries, people tend to eat more meat and fewer vegetables than the average daily requirement. •Excessive use of palm oil also causes problems. Although cheap and widely used in every day products, certain ingredients in palm oil can increase cancer risk, making banning it advisable. •Central Asia's heavy karachay (black tea with milk) drinking culture needs to be reconsidered, as it causes many health problems, such as ana... Read moreemia. Improper diet leads to type 2 diabetes. In 2018, 62% of all diseases identified in Uzbekistan were cardiovascular (caused by high blood pressure and malnutrition). Black tea affects the metabolism, increases blood pressure and leads to poor absorption of nutrients. Thus, it is crucial to explain the side-effects of drinking black tea to vulnerable populations. •Advocacy campaigns should be strengthened so that eating habits rooted in the food culture give way to nutritious, balanced meals. •However, in Karakalpakstan, the average family supplements a shortage of expensive calories by eating more carbohydrates. It is essential to work with local people to ensure access to safe and nutritious food in Karakalpakstan. •From a farming perspective, three main challenges were identified. Firstly, lack of water, particularly irrigation water. Farmers suggested drilling wells as a solution. Secondly, a lack of refrigerators/refrigeration facilities in which to store bulky crops. Without high-quality refrigeration facilities, it is hard to maintain the freshness of newly harvested products. Lastly, chemical fertilizer is used excessively. Although organic fertilizers are safer/environmentally friendly, the use of chemical fertilizers is increasing. This leads to loss of land fertility. 2.Action track #2 Shift to sustainable consumption patterns •An unsustainable food consumption system in Karakalpakstan represents a major challenge. Due to the environmental crisis in the Aral Sea region, the Republic of Karakalpakstan has struggled to provide a stable food supply to the population and relies on other regions. Furthermore, a lack of up-to-date information on prices and market conditions has allowed layers of intermediaries to set unfair prices, and unjust price hikes. •The Government should develop an equitable mechanism to balance food prices and support and monitor the supply chain to prevent significant price rises and ensure sustainability. Social and financial support to low-income groups is also necessary. •In order to improve local production capacity and create a sustainable value chain, incentives for local farmers/producers should be provided, and resources, such as land, water, fertilizers, machinery should be provided at affordable prices. 3.Action track #3 Boost nature- positive Production •There is a negative impact on eco-systems and poor implementation of environmental protection laws. Environmental law should be re-enforced and streamlined, including introducing compensation mechanisms which impose fines on enterprises which cause negative environmental impact. •It is also important to develop an overall concept and strategy for sustainable food systems, indicating clear goals, criteria, and indicators. Identifying and setting a clear safety threshold for the eco-system is necessary. •In order to restore the damaged eco-system, the planting of species such as Thuja tree and Oak, which can survive in harsh environments and inhibit the spread of tuberculosis bacilli, should be urgently increased. Planting species with low-water demands, such as legumes, oilseeds, sesame and sunflower is also highly recommended. •Considering the constant water shortages in Karakalpakstan, instead of water-thirsty cotton, it is essential to diversify food crops to mitigate risk. 4.Action track #4 Advance equitable livelihoods •Alongside the unjustifiably high cost of resources (i.e., diesel fuel, fertilizers, seeds, chemicals, machinery) there is low productivity, water scarcity, and a lack of qualified agronomists. •Since many companies are state-owned, high resource prices and low productivity are the most pressing issues. One suggestion is to remove VAT tax from agriculture, preventing monopoly and increasing market competitiveness. Moreover, subsidies for fertilizers, lease of agricultural equipment and machinery and preferential loans are recommended, particularly for small/medium-sized farmers. •Introducing laser equalizer equipment (special machinery that equalizes the water line for irrigation) would be useful. •To attract more agronomists, it is necessary to offer incentives, such as a decent salary, capacity building training, and new technological equipment. 5.Action track #5 Build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stress •The pandemic has exposed the vulnerability of the food system, as certain essential foods have become difficult to obtain. However, some rural districts have been able to secure these. Teaching farming practices to the population could help households be self-sufficient in some agricultural products. •To shift to a more financially efficient production process and improve agricultural logistics, learning from international agricultural production experience and leveraging innovative technology is essential. •It is also important not to rely on external sources, but to use existing capacity to increase the efficiency of food production, including the improvement of ready foods. Read less

1. National Food Security System The dialogue convener underlined three major urgent issues: • The urgent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural waste. • Further improvement of the hunger level. • Law and institutional systems must be streamlined to integrate international standards and strengthen import policy. The Government set the following indicators and action points to address food system challenges. 1) Food Security: Increase the productivity of the average crop of cereal grains by 17 %; increase total crop areas containing fodder crops by 1.1 %; improve the aver... Read moreage milk yield. 2) Favourable Agribusiness Environment: increase the share of exports from agricultural enterprises by 14 %; improve village farming and strengthen the "Made in Uzbekistan" brand; improve Uzbekistan's ranking (117) in 2018 in the World Bank's Logistic Performance Index (LPI); increase the share of processed products by 21.1%; increase workers in the food industry by 3 %. 3) Reduction of State Intervention and Promotion of Investment: improve the ranking of 77 out of 101 countries in the World Bank EVA index; increase capital investment (2021 exceeded the target for the year). 4) Improve natural resources usage: increase farmland by 1.0 million hectares; increase farmland water-saving technologies by 2.3%; reduce the percentage of saline soils; increase forest areas to 3.4 million hectares; increase angiosperm land area by 39%. 5) Modernize public administration systems: proceed with ongoing agricultural reforms and strengthen accountability as per new Presidential Decrees; revise the structure of state enterprises; privatize public enterprises and accelerate the legal process. 6) Diversify government spending: increase agriculture research costs by 0.0015%; increase loans to $ 900 million; strengthen medium-term budgeting. 7) Develop agricultural sciences, education, information and counselling services: raise the number of graduates who engage in agribusiness by 24 %; increase farmers' access to advice and services by 5%; increase the number of farmers who are satisfied with knowledge dissemination services and information counselling centres by 5%. 8) Development of Rural areas: increase the number of manufactures (micro-firms) in rural areas by 57.8%; increase the number of women producers in rural areas by 8 %; increase youth involvement in product development in rural areas by 8%. 9) Development of a transparent system of statistics: improve the national statistics system, including agriculture food statistics. The Government of Uzbekistan will implement the following actions by the end of 2021. • Introduce a supply market mechanism for plant protection and mineral fertilizer by April 2021. • Initiate a food safety and national consumption programme by September 2021. • Create transparent mechanisms for the lease of land plots by September 2021. • Conduct climate change analysis and software development by December 2021. • Initiate a digital agriculture integration platform (e-agriculture uz) by December 2021. Several issues and suggestions have been identified by online participants: • Lack of statistical data on all aspects of the country's food security systems. • The issue of harmonized language within the food security system. The need to strengthen and harmonize diverse food security terminologies to reach a wide range of people, particularly in Uzbek and Karakalpak languages. • Lack of knowledge sharing. International organizations and development agencies must learn from each other’s experiences, accelerate knowledge exchange, and create synergy to strengthen partnerships. • Policy recommendations are presented in the Report of Westminster University on "Urban Food Security and the Covid-19 Crisis; the case of Uzbekistan Cities" (P.9-24: Russian / English). This report identifies five policy options to ensure a robust and resilient urban food system: improved management of strategic food reserves; promotion of urban farming; sustainable urban social safety nets; open food trade; and continued liberalization of wheat production and market. Read less