Russia’s malt imports in 2003 were 513,000 tonnes after 555,000 tonnes a year before. It is estimated that deliveries from Belorussia, which are not registered as imports, were 50,000 tonnes. That means that Russian maltings produced 650,000 tons of malt for total needs of 1.20 – 1.25 million tonnes. Demand for 2004 will be 1.3 million tonnes, of which Russia may supply 8-900,000 tons. Two new factories went on stream during 2003, three more will follow in 2004. Imports could still amount to 4-500,000 tonnes.

23 April, 2004