Uzbekistan Deposits Rare Crop Seeds in Norway’s Global Seed Vault

Uzbekistan has sent more than 20 varieties of traditional crops, including melons, watermelons, wheat and eggplants, to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway, the Ministry of Agriculture announced.

The seeds, many of which are ancient Uzbek varieties, were delivered with support from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), NordGen and Uzbekistan’s Institute of Plant Genetic Resources. Officials say the move helps protect the country’s agricultural heritage and supports global food security efforts.

Among the stored seeds is the native «Qayroqtosh» wheat variety, valued for its cultural and scientific importance.

Located deep in the Arctic permafrost, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault preserves over 1.1 million seed samples from around the world. The facility serves as a secure backup for crop diversity, safeguarding seeds against climate impacts, disasters and conflict.