On June 8, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Agricultural Value Chains (AVC) Project, in close cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources of Uzbekistan, held its annual Cherry Variety Contest at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tashkent.
USAID Uzbekistan Country Director, John Riordan delivered the opening remarks before an audience of farmers, agribusiness representatives, local and international agriculture experts, and government officials. The contest showcased dozens of cherry varieties from across Uzbekistan, with prizes for best marketability, quality, size, and ‘best in show.’
The forum also gave participants an opportunity to network; share best growing, packaging, storage, and transport practices; and attend technical training sessions. With support from USAID, Uzbekistan, which boasts a 100,000 metric ton harvest, is fifth in world cherry production.
