Astana, 25 October. More than 7,500 tonnes of farm and food produce were offered to buyers at Dala Dami agricultural fairs across the regions this week, over 3,000 tonnes of it in Astana, the Ministry of Trade and Integration said.
On 24 and 25 October more than 140 farmers and companies from Karaganda and Kostanay regions brought produce to the capital's Kazanat racecourse. Interregional fairs have been held in the capital since 19 September, with producers from different regions coming every week. The fairs are designed for direct trade between farmers and buyers without middlemen.
What it means: The state is continuing its season of direct farm sales, and its centre of gravity is Astana.
Who benefits: Buyers get fresh produce without a middleman's mark-up. Farmers from Karaganda and Kostanay regions get a market in the capital. The ministry did not give prices at the fairs.
Background: Weekend fairs are held in autumn when the new harvest reaches the market; the state uses them to restrain food prices.
