The current state and prospects of agricultural development in the Central Asian countries are considered. It is shown that demographic factors and food security are the main stimulating factors for the further development of agriculture. The acceleration of the melting of glaciers in Central Asia stimulates the search and development of progressive and water-saving irrigation technologies. The problem of the impact of large and medium-sized reservoirs on the microclimate and crop yields with the increasing development of the hydroelectric potential of the region becomes relevant. The chemical composition of irrigation water is a key factor in the preservation of soil structure and the development of crops, and the movement of chemical elements through the functioning of the water-soilplant chain can harm the health of the population.