In December 2024, Almaty’s Industrial Zone (AIZ) unveiled an advanced vertical greenhouse dedicated to growing microgreens—including lettuce, arugula, and basil—using hydroponic systems. This €225,000 project, backed by private investment and low-interest loans, underscores Kazakhstan’s push toward high-tech, sustainable agriculture.
Meeting the Demand for Fresh, Organic Produce
The global microgreens market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2024 to 2030, driven by increasing consumer preference for nutrient-dense, chemical-free greens (Grand View Research, 2024). Ulyana Savchenko, the project director, emphasized that hydroponics eliminates seasonal price fluctuations while ensuring consistent, high-quality yields—a key advantage as urban populations seek reliable sources of fresh produce.
Hydroponics: Efficiency and Sustainability
Vertical farming uses 90% less water than traditional agriculture while achieving higher yields per square meter (FAO, 2023). The Almaty facility’s controlled environment prevents pests and diseases, eliminating the need for pesticides—a major selling point for health-conscious consumers. Similar projects in Singapore and the Netherlands have demonstrated 30-50% faster growth cycles for microgreens under LED lighting (AgriFutures, 2024), suggesting further potential for scaling Almaty’s model.
Economic Impact and Future Expansion
The AIZ, home to 107 companies with over €1 billion in investments, continues to drive Kazakhstan’s agri-tech sector. With 41 projects completed since 2016, the zone has created 4,400 jobs and generated €4.6 billion in goods. If successful, this greenhouse could inspire similar ventures across Central Asia, where urban farming investments are rising by 12% annually (World Bank, 2024).
Almaty’s vertical greenhouse represents a fusion of innovation, sustainability, and market responsiveness. By adopting hydroponics, the project addresses food security, reduces environmental impact, and stabilizes supply chains—setting a benchmark for future agri-tech developments in the region.
