Russia's borscht ingredients plummet 25% as farms expand in Primorsky

Vegetable prices in Russia have dropped sharply over the past year, with key borscht ingredients falling by nearly 25%. The decline comes as farmers in Primorsky Territory expand their planting areas, boosting local production and food security. Government support has played a major role in this growth, with over 40 assistance programmes now available to agricultural producers.

Prices for essential vegetables have seen significant reductions. Tomatoes now cost 1.9% less, while carrots have dropped by 4.6%. More dramatic falls include beets (down 33.4%), onions (34.3%), cabbage (37.3%), and potatoes (38.7%). Overall, borscht ingredients have become 24.8% cheaper in the last 12 months.

The price cuts follow a substantial increase in planted areas across Primorsky Territory. Farmers have already sown 1,100 hectares of vegetables this year—200 hectares more than the same period in 2023. The expansion focuses on borscht staples, tomatoes, and cucumbers, with the largest crops grown in Ussuriysk (326 hectares) and Partizansk (268 hectares) districts. This growth aligns with broader agricultural development in the region. Crop production volume has risen by 40% in recent years, now valued at 50 billion rubles. Farmers have also met 83% of their vegetable planting targets, supported by state subsidies for potato and vegetable production. The region’s agricultural sector continues to strengthen, backed by expanded government funding and assistance schemes.

The drop in vegetable prices reflects both increased local production and stronger government support for farmers. With 1,100 hectares planted and 83% of targets met, Primorsky Territory’s agricultural output is rising. The region’s 40 assistance programmes aim to sustain this growth in the coming years.