Recently, our editorial team reported on how farmers in North Kazakhstan lost their grain and funds after trusting an unreliable company.
Following the publication, our editorial office began receiving messages from other affected farming enterprises.
Particular attention was drawn to the story of a farming enterprise that faced significant debts in 2020. The owner of the farm learned of the multi-million tenge debt to a large agricultural company only after receiving a court notice. He claims he never collaborated with this company and never took out any loans.
As it turned out, the official seal of the enterprise was in the possession of acquaintances of the farm owner. According to him, using the seal, they entered into contracts, obtained loans, and conducted business on behalf of the enterprise without the owner's knowledge. As a result, a debt of 15 million tenge was accrued.
To repay the debt, the farmer had to hand over more than 161,000 kg of soft wheat. Only then were the seizures on the farm's assets – fields and agricultural machinery – lifted.
It is worth noting that this situation is similar to the previously described case of Farm Enterprise "Natalisa" and Farm Enterprise "Kolos", which also involved intermediaries in transactions with a company later declared bankrupt.
In light of the increasing number of such incidents, the editorial team of FBRK considers it necessary to remind owners of farming enterprises of important precautionary measures when conducting business.
First and foremost, it is essential to thoroughly check all partner companies through open databases. It is important to remember that handing over seals and documents of the enterprise to third parties can lead to serious consequences. It is recommended to regularly check for any debts or asset seizures through government portals.
Special attention should be paid to legal support for transactions. Contracts should only be concluded after a thorough review of all documents. All agreements must be recorded in writing, even if dealing with long-standing acquaintances.
Extreme caution should also be exercised regarding the use of electronic digital signatures (EDS). Even when it is necessary to submit applications for subsidies or arrange phytosanitary certificates, EDS keys should not be handed over to unauthorised persons. It is recommended to carry out all such operations personally or with the assistance of officially registered employees of the enterprise.
The FBRK editorial team urges everyone to be vigilant when entering into contracts and not to neglect basic safety measures. Timely adherence to these simple rules will help protect the interests of farming enterprises and avoid serious financial losses.