Evaluating the impact of investments on the productivity of Kyrgyzstan’s agro-industrial complex

Increasing the efficiency of the agro-industrial complex of Kyrgyzstan is a key task for ensuring the country’s food security and economic stability. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of investments on the productivity of Kyrgyzstan's agro-industrial complex, in particular by determining the efficiency of their allocation, identifying barriers to attracting capital, and outlining promising areas for industry development. The study analysed data for the period 2014-2024, including the regional distribution of investments, the level of mechanisation, production volumes, and the introduction of innovative technologies. It was found that the share of investments in agriculture averages 12.4% of total capital investments in the country; however, their distribution is uneven. Thus, in the Chui region, investments reached USD 492.9 thousand in 2020, whereas in the Naryn region, they amounted to only USD 0.2 thousand. At the same time, productivity increased most significantly in regions with developed infrastructure: in the Jalal-Abad region, production rose from 1,631.1 thousand tonnes in 2020 to 1,666.9 thousand tonnes in 2023. Investments in irrigation systems led to an 18.7% increase in yields, while the modernisation of technological equipment contributed to a 12.4% reduction in product losses. The analysis revealed that only 27.5% of farms have access to modern technologies, which significantly limits the potential for productivity growth. The SWOT analysis identified the main challenges as climate change, bureaucratic barriers, and weak coordination between the state and the private sector. The practical value of the study lies in developing recommendations for creating a favourable investment climate, enhancing the efficiency of financing, stimulating public-private partnerships, and implementing circular economy approaches. The proposed measures will contribute to the sustainable development of Kyrgyzstan’s agroindustrial complex, increasing productivity and expanding the country's export potential