West Kazakhstan aims for 1,767 tons of fish despite underused water bodies
Nature's Untapped Potential
Only a third of the water bodies in West Kazakhstan Region are used for commercial fishing. This low figure is hampering efforts to meet production targets—last year's plan was fulfilled at just 60%—highlighting the inefficient use of natural opportunities for fish farming.
This year, authorities have set a goal to increase fish production to 1,767 tons. The announcement came during a meeting at the regional akimat (governor's office) dedicated to discussing the future of aquaculture development.
According to Darkhan Zakarin, deputy head of the regional Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Regulation, 176 water bodies and fishing sites of local significance are officially listed. Of these, 57 have been allocated to 42 businesses. Commercial fishing operates on 21 sites, recreational (sport) fishing on four, lake-based commercial fish farming on 31, and one site uses cage aquaculture.
Not all operations, however, meet expected standards. For example, in Burlynsy, Taskalinsky, Karatobinsky, and Zhanibek districts, none of the 30 water bodies in their territories are registered for fishing activities. In total, 119 water bodies across the region remain unassigned.
A second major obstacle to industry growth is that lessees often fail to deliver on their proposed projects. As a result, they are forced to relinquish their water bodies: since 2021, 11 contracts with entrepreneurs have been terminated for breaching obligations, and seven were not renewed.
The meeting also addressed state support measures for fish farming. Last year, the local budget allocated around 10.5 million tenge for this purpose, of which less than 9.4 million was spent. This year, nearly 26.5 million tenge has been earmarked. Fish farmers receive reimbursements covering 50% of costs for veterinary medicines, broodstock purchases to replenish fish populations, and fingerlings, as well as 30% for feed expenses.
Additionally, 89.709 million tenge has been set aside this year to subsidize a portion of investment costs in aquaculture.
Using regional budget funds, the Department of Natural Resources annually prepares scientific and biological assessments for water body certification. By 2026, 4.7 million tenge is allocated for the official registration of four steppe lakes.
The region has also begun assigning water bodies to specific uses. This year, 17 sites have been designated for commercial fish farming, while 15 will serve recreational and sport fishing.
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