Character and comparative advantage: Tajikistan has a rich history in horticulture; since ancient times, local products have been an integral part of nutrition for the local population. Apricots have been one of the most widespread and sustainably harvested crops produced in Tajikistan for thousands of years. Apricots have become a strategic product for the country, with more than 100 000 members of the rural population engaged in production, processing and export. Apricots, both fresh and dried, are one of the main agriculture products exported.

Apricot production and processing, especially the production of dried apricots, is one of the main sources of income for the farmers of several districts of the country.

According to various estimates, around 10 percent of the world’s apricot orchards are located in Tajikistan.

Producing areas: The main producing areas are the drylands, mountainous areas and valleys of Tajikistan.

Demands: Demand exists in both the local and export markets, given the fruit’s nutritional values, scope for food basket diversification and shelf life, among other benefits.

There was a period of rapid growth in the years leading to 2007, mainly due to increased demand for dried apricots in the Russian Federation. Since then, the global market has almost stagnated. The demand is still growing in the Russian Federation – the largest importer of dried apricots – as well as in Australia, Belarus, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, India, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Ukraine.

Consumption: After being harvested, apricots have an extremely short shelf life and need to be eaten fresh within a few days. Otherwise, the fruit should be dried or processed for juice, jam or canning. Apricots and their processed products are low in fat – especially saturated fats – and are a rich source of some important nutrients. Apricots are rich in beta-carotenes, which play a critical role in fighting diseases and infections by maintaining strong immunity; protecting the eyes; helping keep skin, hair, gums and various glands healthy; and helping build bones and teeth. Apricots also are an excellent source of potassium, iron and magnesium. Eating just three fresh apricots provides 35–45 percent of the daily recommended intake for vitamin A. Apricots, especially unpeeled, are a good source of fiber, which is important to a healthy diet and can help control weight and lower cholesterol levels. In comparison to other major fruits, apricots contain significantly higher amounts of flavonoids, especially catechin and epicatechin. A variety of dietary flavonoids have been found to inhibit tumor development.

Beneficiaries: The main beneficiaries are the farming communities, mainly in terms of food security and income opportunities, both through domestic and export markets. The initiative also could benefit both producers and consumers. The nutritional and health benefits for the population also could be improved through the introduction of this commodity in particular.