April 5, 2011
 

Russian milk production expected to decline

After lower output last year, Russian milk production is expected to decline further by 2% this year.

As a result, Russian imports are expected to increase further in order to meet domestic demand.

The 2010 drought accelerated cattle slaughter rates and decreased current and future feed supplies, thereby negatively impacting not only milk supply but also on productivity for 2010 and 2011. The cattle population has decreased by 600,000 head, leaving dairy plants and production facilities with a deficit of milk for production purposes.

Milk powder production decreased 44% in the three years to 2009. Cheese production has also declined.