The total volume of meat production in Russia this year will increase by 6% to 10.5 million tonnes.

 

The increase in production is thanks to support measures implemented by the Russian government, said Elena Skrynnik, head of the Russian Ministry of Agriculture.

 

In 2009, the growth of meat production in Russia amounted to 6.6%, with the growth in pork production more than 8.6%. In 2009, imports declined by 30%.

 

According to Skrynnik, the Russian government will continue its support of the domestic meat industry through the subsidisation of new and already issued loans for investment projects, as well projects for primary processing of meat.

 

"Overall, I expect that 2010 will be a good year for the industry," Skrynnik said. According to her, during the next 4-5 years Russia will not only be able to fully provide the domestic demand for meat, but to start exporting abroad.

 

Skrynnik added that more than 120 production and processing facilities with a capacity of 646 thousand tonnes will be launched in 2010. By 2012, more than 40% of pork and 36% of beef will be produced at sites launched during the 2006-2012 period.

 

Among the strategic issues facing today's industry, the minister highlighted the establishment of enterprises with full cycle of meat production, as well as modern genetic centres in key areas of cattle breeding.