Russian Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev acknowledged that more progress was expected after a public remark from President Vladimir Putin about rising egg prices. The discussion, reported by RIA News, framed a moment of accountability at the highest level of government and set the stage for policy adjustments aimed at stabilizing the market for poultry products.
Patrushev stated that he believed he should have delivered better results and that the final outcome perhaps did not entirely meet the task’s demands. He indicated a readiness to reassess efforts and accepted the possibility that the administration might reframe its approach to ensure price stability for eggs in the near term. The minister also expressed confidence that the president would provide another opportunity to bring prices into alignment with consumer expectations, a sentiment reflecting intergovernmental coordination during complex agricultural markets. (citation: Kremlin press service)
The minister further articulated optimism that chicken egg prices would ease in the coming year, outlining a trajectory based on planned measures in production, logistics, and market oversight. While acknowledging current price pressures, Patrushev emphasized a multi-pronged strategy that could include adjustments to supply chains, support for poultry farmers, and enhanced monitoring of price dynamics to reassure shoppers and producers alike. (citation: Interagency briefing)
During a public event on December 14, the president had a moment where he asked about the status of eggs in ordinary life, a reference that illustrated how political leadership seeks to connect with citizens on everyday concerns such as food costs. The exchange underscored the administration’s focus on tangible, household-level outcomes and the willingness to consider policy instruments that would maintain affordability without compromising supply security. (citation: Presidential remarks summary)
On December 17, Patrushev indicated progress was anticipated within a two- to three-week window, with promises that supplies from Turkey would enter Russia under a revised arrangement that would minimize or remove the relevant import tax. The timing suggested a targeted response to price volatility, leveraging international trade channels to bolster domestic availability while balancing fiscal considerations. (citation: Trade ministry briefing)
Earlier developments included regulatory actions by the Federal Antimonopoly Service, which contemplated taking cases against certain egg producers operating in Crimea and the Kirov region. The step reflected a broader effort to curb anti-competitive practices and ensure fair pricing across regional markets, reinforcing the government’s priority of consumer protection and market integrity. These measures, in concert with ongoing inspections and market analyses, formed part of a comprehensive approach to stabilize egg prices while supporting agricultural producers who faced rising costs and weather-related challenges. (citation: FAS announcements)