March 12, 2009
Russia may increase '09 pork, poultry production by 8 percent
Russia could increase the production of pork and poultry 8 percent in 2009, First Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov, who heads a commission in charge of economic development, said on Tuesday (Mar 10).
Shuvalov said that all plans concerning the production of pork and poultry will be fulfilled in 2009, credit resources will be issued and the investment projects carried out in 2007-2008 made it possible to say that pork and poultry production could grow by 8 percent this year.
He said that beef prices have been rising at steadier rates than the cost of all other meats.
He noted that the issue of increasing beef production needs to be considered, adding that he is not expecting production to grow in volumes as compared to pork and poultry.
He said the government is most concerned about the growth in meat prices among all the staple food products due to the country's strong dependence on imports.
He also said the commission discussed the issue of interest rates for lending to farmers.
He said the government will try to draw up and pass a law on retail before the end of the year that will clearly describe all the rights and responsibilities of market members.
