In an effort to increase the efficiency of Kazakhstan's grain sector, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) teamed up with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to promote the Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS). The two agencies will present the functioning of AMIS in the framework of a roadshow in the three cities of Astana, Kostanay and Almaty between 14 and 17 June 2016.

The presentations are part of a joint technical assistance project: “Enhancing grain market transparency in Kazakhstan – For informed market prospects and investment decision-making", which seeks to create a better environment for investment in the Kazakh grain sector. “The roadshow will allow grain producers, suppliers, processors and exporters of Kazakhstan to learn about AMIS, as well as receive valuable information on global grain production, consumption and trade estimates in 2016-17”, said Azamat Shamsiev, Principal Banker of the EBRD.

Discussions during the presentation will also touch on obstacles for a more efficient and inclusive grain sector in Kazakhstan. “The active participation of Kazakhstan in AMIS would help enhance transparency in the country's grain market and create a better investment climate in this key sector of the Kazakh economy”, said Branko Bulatovic, Head of the FAO Partnership and Liaison Office in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan is the 8th largest exporter of wheat in the world. Accounting for 4-5 per cent of worldwide wheat exports, the country plays an important role in assuring global food security. In 2015, the country exported 6.5 million tons of wheat and annual revenues from grain export range between USD 1.3 and USD 1.8 billion.