October 28, 2008

Bumper crop to boost Russia's grain production

Russia's grain exports will reach 20 million tonnes in the 2008-2009 crop year, according to Agriculture Minister Alexei Gordeye.

Such an export level can be attained thanks to a record high crop yield in fifteen years. This year, Russia harvested over 100 million tonnes of grain.

According to the minister, the high crop yield will help Russia maintain its export potential, along with covering Russia's domestic demand and adding to its grain reserves.

In addition, Gordeyev noted that cattle breeding was on track to show substantial growth compared with the previous year, with an increase of 6.7 percent to 9.2 tonnes of meat, including 16.5 percent in the poultry industry.