Russia: Grain export ban to remain in force at least until end of September

Russia will not cancel the grain export ban until the end of September 2011, Elena Skrynnik, Minister of Agriculture of Russia, was quoted as saying by AgriMarket.Info on March 25.

To date, the effective and opportune realizing of the spring grain sowing works throughout the areas of 50 mln ha is the main task of the country, including nearly 30 mln ha of grain sowings, which will allow receiving the general grain production at the level of 85 mln tonnes, Ms. Skrynnik explained.

At the end of September-October, the Government will evaluate the harvest volumes and make the final decision on the further prolongation or cancellation of the present embargo for grain exports.

The present grain export ban is the compulsory strategic measure for keeping of the food security of the country, she added. Restoring of the export supplies is one of the priority tasks for the Government.

In 2010, due to the anomalous summer droughts, the general grain production in Russia lowered by 37% compared to 2009 results, and totalled 60.9 mln tonnes.

25 March, 2011