The Ministry of Agriculture discussed the progress of spring field work and mechanisms to support agricultural producers

The pace of the sowing campaign this year is higher than last year, and farmers are provided with unprecedented state support measures. Their implementation, as well as the course of spring field work, were discussed today at a meeting of the operational headquarters of the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia, which was chaired by the Minister of Agriculture Dmitry Patrushev.

He noted that at present, 3 million hectares have been sown with spring crops throughout the country. Winter crops were fed on an area of ​​over 11 million hectares. 37 regions have entered the phase of spring field work. The provision of grain seeds in general is at the level of 2021 and is more than 103%. The harvesting of seeds of other crops is being dynamically carried out. The rates of acquisition of fuels and lubricants exceed last year's, and the availability of mineral fertilizers is at the level of the previous year.

The minister recalled that in March, an additional 30 billion rubles had already been allocated for preferential lending to farmers. On behalf of the President, more than 150 billion rubles will be allocated for this measure. With this in mind, in 2022, more than 284 billion rubles are already expected for the mechanism - this is the maximum amount since its launch.

In addition, 5 billion rubles will be allocated for the construction of an enterprise that will scale up domestic breeding funds of meat chickens. This will provide Russian poultry farms with chickens and in the future reduce import dependence on poultry meat. Another 800 million rubles are allocated to improve epizootic well-being in the regions. In particular, the funds will be used to purchase vaccines and diagnostic systems. Work is also underway to allocate additional funding for the development of rural areas, including for new loans under the “rural mortgage”.

Special attention was paid to the segment of small and medium-sized businesses. For small forms, all types of existing state support are available. In addition, there are tools designed specifically for them - first of all, grants. For recipients in 2021-2022, the Ministry of Agriculture provided the opportunity to extend the obligation to spend the grant for 12 months.

Starting from 2022, funds will be provided as part of a “stimulating subsidy” to stimulate production in personal subsidiary farms, and support will be provided to buyers for the sale of products. In addition, farmers who advance production in household plots under the so-called agricultural contracts will be able to count on preferences.

The agency will continue to improve mechanisms to support small agribusiness. At the same time, systemic processes should be established in the regions to promote the marketing of farm products.

“Small business is the most sensitive segment, especially in the current situation. Calculated, everyday work is needed both at the federal level and in the regions. Manufacturers should be able to present products on the shelves. Where necessary - even in manual mode, provide assistance. I want to say the same about checks. This year, small and medium-sized businesses are exempted from them. Control the execution of the relevant instructions of the state leadership on the ground. Today, the common task is to help, not create excessive obstacles,” Dmitry Patrushev stressed.

During the meeting, representatives of the regions shared their successful experience in involving farm products in online trading, reported on the progress of spring field work and preparations for sowing.

Source: Press Service of the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia