The dairy sector has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping milk products affordable for households nationwide. This pledge was voiced by Dmitry Patrushev, the Minister of Agriculture, during the 25th congress of the National Union of Milk Producers. The message focused on steady, predictable pricing as a central priority, even as seasonal shifts and changing market conditions press on the industry.
During the congress, Patrushev urged both industry participants and the public to watch price dynamics closely and to resist abrupt, unexplained increases. He warned that sharp price jumps could prompt timely regulatory actions designed to stabilize the market and safeguard consumers. The overarching aim is to maintain trust in the dairy market while maintaining fair competition among farmers, distributors, and retailers.
The minister recalled that earlier adjustments in milk purchase prices reflected a period of higher production. He noted government support through expanded export opportunities for dairy products. By opening and widening export channels, domestic producers could better absorb production surpluses, helping to stabilize the national market and keep retail prices within reasonable bounds. Patrushev highlighted how production, export policy, and consumer pricing are interconnected in shaping a resilient dairy sector.
Statistical data show a modest rise in drinking milk prices since the start of 2023, with increases around 0.5 to 0.6 percent. The broader price growth for the year has remained about 0.5 percent, suggesting a measured trajectory rather than volatility. These indicators inform policy tools aimed at balancing farmers’ income with affordable consumption for households. The ongoing effort involves close collaboration with producers, industry bodies, and regional authorities to monitor supply chains, manage costs, and ensure transparent pricing structures.
In recent public statements, the ministry signaled readiness to respond decisively to price shocks in essential goods, including dairy and eggs, through a mix of supply-side support, market interventions, and, when necessary, targeted export controls. The objective is to prevent speculative spikes and to maintain steady availability of staples for families across diverse regions. The ministry also underscored the importance of domestic dairy development programs, investment in processing capacity, and improved logistics to reduce costs from farm to store shelves.
Previously, the ministry outlined a framework for monitoring, forecasting, and rapid response to rising prices for basic goods. This comprehensive approach involved coordinated actions with agricultural cooperatives, retailers, and transport providers to mitigate price volatility and safeguard consumer interests. The ministry’s experience in addressing market dynamics has helped shape policy measures that protect household budgets while supporting the dairy sector’s competitiveness on national and international stages.
Additionally, the ministry explored scenarios to safeguard the dairy supply chain during peak demand or potential disruptions. By aligning agricultural subsidies, cold-chain logistics improvements, and export incentives, officials aimed to ensure a steady flow of milk and dairy products to consumers even amid external pressures such as climate variability or global market shifts. These efforts reflect a long term vision of resilient food security where affordability, quality, and availability are pursued in tandem.