Russia may be self-sufficient in pork this year

Pork production in Russia may meet consumer demand this year, thus virtually stopping their need to import pork.

Domestic production is expected to increase 8 percent while consumer demand is expected to be down about 20 percent.

As a result, Russian production and consumption could level out at about 2.2 million tonnes each. The Russian government is supporting pork production through regular state support for the hog breeding industry.

However, there is another reason for the growth. Earlier this year, authorities decided to increase import duties for pork.

By itself, this measure may lead to reduction of imports of by 200,000 tonnes.