The Ministry of Agriculture announced that the grain export quota for Russia will not be revised ahead of the end of the current agricultural year, which runs through June 30, 2023. The ministry added that it may adjust how the quota is distributed among exporters if it identifies an opportunity to support those who demonstrate higher levels of activity. This note was communicated by Oksana Lut, First Deputy Minister, via the ministry’s press service and reflects the ministry’s approach to balancing export opportunities with domestic food security considerations.
At present, the export quota stands at 25.5 million tons of grain and is scheduled to apply from February 15 to June 30, 2023. Early in this period, exports reached around 35 million tons, and the season was planned to target a total of 60 million tons. These figures provide a framework for assessing stock levels and ensuring a stable food supply for the country and its trading partners, even as the ministry evaluates potential redistribution by favoring exporters who demonstrate stronger engagement and performance in securing timely shipments.
The ministry emphasized that the main objective behind the seasonal target is to maintain adequate stocks that support food security while meeting export commitments. It indicated readiness to consider reallocating portions of the quota in favor of operators who show sustained momentum and compliance with export schedules, provided such adjustments align with broader policy goals and market conditions.
In comments during February 21 remarks, the Russian president highlighted the national effort to push up grain sales abroad to a total of up to 60 million tons by the end of June 2023. The administration noted that the year’s harvest reached a record level, with the country producing approximately 150 million tons of grain in the season. Wheat alone exceeded 100 million tons, underscoring a robust production year that supports both domestic needs and international deliveries. These developments reflect a strategic stance aimed at reinforcing the country’s position in global grain markets while maintaining stability within domestic supply chains. The ongoing dialogue among agricultural authorities, industry participants, and policymakers continues to shape assessments of export capacity and the distribution of the quota across exporters, with attention to practical logistics, pricing dynamics, and the resilience of supply networks. This coordinated effort is designed to safeguard the nation’s food security objectives while maximizing the efficient use of grain resources for both local consumption and foreign trade.
Disclaimer: Citations attributed to the ministries and presidential statements are provided for context and reference to official communications.