In a world where 80% of Merino wool hails from distant Australian shores and often loses its traceability in complex supply chains, a pressing question emerges: Is there a more local source of Merino wool with clear traceability from farm to grower, and even to the sheep? The answer lies in Kyrgyzstan.
The Kyrgyz wool industry reached its peak with 10 million sheep just before the fall of the Soviet Union. This rise began when Dr. Lutshikhin, appointed by the Kremlin, initiated the introduction of Merino sheep into the Soviet Union. He led a team of wildlife biologists, veterinarians, and farmers in search of an ideal environment for these sheep. After extensive research and field trips, Kyrgyzstan, with its untouched landscapes and skilled herders, became the chosen haven.
Dr. Lutshikhin arranged the transport of 200 Merino sheep from Australia to Kyrgyzstan. His goal was to cross-breed them with local sheep, blending the Merinos’ fine wool with the hardiness of the native mountain breeds. The idea was to create a breed that could thrive in high altitudes and harsh weather while producing a warmer fleece.
The results were promising. The Merinos not only adapted but thrived in the Kyrgyz mountains, leading to the emergence of the Kyrgyz Merino breed. Over the next century, these sheep became well-suited to the local environment, and the herders quickly mastered the art of raising them. This project was a success story, contrasting with many other failed attempts at introducing species to new habitats.
During the Soviet era, the wool industry in Kyrgyzstan advanced significantly, marked by the establishment of Central Asia’s largest woolen mill in Tokmok—Kasiet, which means ‘eternal.’ This factory played a crucial role in the Soviet wool supply chain, producing yarn for both civilian and military use. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to a sharp decline in the industry. Sheep numbers plummeted from 10 million to just 30,000 over three decades as the market disappeared.
China sustained the wool market for a time, but at a cost. Chinese merchants preferred raw wool over yarns, driving down prices and tightening control over Kyrgyz farmers. This pressure brought the industry to a critical point—farmers were left to decide whether to abandon wool production and slaughter the Merinos for meat.
Kyrgyzstan has significant potential to revitalize its Merino wool industry, thanks to its unique environment and rich history in wool production. The high-altitude terrain is perfectly suited for Merino sheep, which have thrived here for over a century, producing wool that is both soft and resilient.
With growing global demand for traceable, ethically sourced materials, Kyrgyzstan is well-positioned to offer high-quality wool that tells a compelling story of sustainability. By investing in local processing and capitalizing on the country’s natural advantages, Kyrgyzstan can reclaim its place in the global wool market, offering premium products that meet modern consumer demands
