Farmers in Kazakhstan have been increasing the land area devoted to growing oilseed and pulse crops – and it makes good sense from several viewpoints. An FAO-organized seminar on “Pulses and oilseeds: prospects for development” was held here today, one of many forward-looking events on offer this year at Astana EXPO 2017.

As the backbone of the rural economy, agriculture in Kazakhstan plays an important role in ensuring food security and economic sustainability of the national food system. It is one of the main factors in the country’s economic and social development, ensuring sustainable growth, rural livelihoods, and nourishment for the entire population.