Rising prices for meat products in Rostov region: reasons and consequences

There are significant differences in MEAT prices within the region . Thus, in Millerovo, lamb costs 714 rubles per kilogram, which is the lowest price in the region, while in Shakhty it reaches 777 rubles, making this city one of the most expensive for consumers. The average price of beef was 579 rubles per kilogram, an increase of 74 rubles over the year. The cheapest beef is offered in Shakhty at 549 rubles, while in Taganrog it is 608 rubles. Pork has also become more expensive, on average its price is 383 rubles per kilogram, which is 19 rubles more than last year. In Rostov, pork costs 371 rubles , while in Salsk it is 404 rubles, making it the most expensive in the region.

Experts say the main factor behind the price increase is the reduction in livestock in the region. As of December 1, 2024 , the number of cattle decreased by 3%, amounting to 294 thousand heads, the number of pigs fell by 7% to 318.2 thousand, and the number of sheep decreased by 7.4%, leaving 881.4 thousand. This reduction is due to economic difficulties, increased feed prices and deteriorating conditions for farming. Also, changes in consumer preferences affect the demand for certain types of meat, such as lamb and beef.

The rise in meat prices has a noticeable impact on family budgets, leading to a decrease in purchasing power and a change in consumer habits. Many families will likely begin to look for alternative sources of protein, such as legumes or poultry . From the producers’ point of view, the price increase may lead to an increase in profits, but it also creates risks, since a steady increase in prices may reduce demand for meat products, which will negatively affect business. Thus, the difficult situation on the meat market of the Rostov Region requires careful monitoring and a search for solutions that will help both consumers and producers adapt to the new economic conditions.