Korean smart farm project boosts hydroponic strawberry production in Uzbekistan

A Korean smart farm developer, Firmmit, has launched a 1.5-hectare hydroponic strawberry greenhouse in Uzbekistan’s Yukorichirchik district, converting an idle facility into a high-tech production site aimed at export markets. The project features around 75,000 plants of the Firmmit1943 variety, selected for durability and uniformity, with shipments primarily targeting Russia and Kazakhstan.

The greenhouse relies on hydroponic cultivation with a coco peat substrate and drip irrigation, enabling precise control of water and nutrient delivery. An integrated ICT platform equipped with IoT sensors monitors environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, CO₂ levels, and light intensity in real time. The system is supported by an AI-based nutrient optimization program that adjusts fertigation strategies based on local water quality and solar radiation, enabling consistent crop performance and reducing the risks of soil-borne diseases and salinity.

Despite a shortened first growing season, the facility produced about 30,000 kg of strawberries, generating roughly $476,700 in revenue and achieving a gross margin of 76.4%. Under full-season conditions, output is projected to range from 90,000 to 112,500 kg, with yields up to 1.5 kg per plant. Uzbekistan’s high solar exposure and proximity to regional markets are expected to support further expansion, as the company works with local partners to scale production and strengthen cold chain logistics, positioning the country as an emerging export center for premium strawberries.