December 11, 2009

Russia to develop local beef cattle industry

In a bid to sharply increase the volume of beef production in the next couple of years, Russia will develop its domestic beef cattle industry.

The current share of beef cattle in Russia's cattle herd amounted to only 1.5 percent. In comparison, the number of beef cows in the world's most developed countries is at least equivalent to dairy cows' number.

Analysts said the beef cow to dairy cow ratio in the EU is about 1:1, while in the US dairy cows make up only 20 percent of the total herd.

Average cattle carcass weight in Russia is only 169kg, while the average carcass weight in the US is 349kg – the highest in the world. EU is placed second with 317kg, Australia is third at 227kg and Brazil is fourth at 207kg.

The initial plans of the Russian government will increase the number of beef cattle in the country and boost domestic beef production through financial support.

Financial details of the project were not disclosed, while its official launch could happen as early as next year.