Russia’s agriculture crisis continues

With everything from sugar production to potato production in a state of collapse due to mismanagement and the majority of resources being allocated to the war effort, Russia’s agricultural shortages are deepening.

Russia has proposed to the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) a six-month suspension of import duties on potatoes, onions, cabbage, carrots, and apples, from January 1 to July 31, 2025. This measure aims to address inflation and prevent food shortages caused by limited supply following adverse weather events earlier this year.

The proposal, set to apply to specific tonnage limits for each product, includes up to 300,000 tons of potatoes, 85,000 tons of onions, 40,000 tons of cabbage, 85,000 tons of carrots, and 230,000 tons of apples. It is seen as a step to stabilize prices of essential goods, according to the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.

Currently, the import duty for vegetables stands at 5%, while apples are taxed at 0.06 euros per kilogram. The proposal is open for discussion until December 18, 2024.