A Drop in the 2018 Grain Yield : Are There Grounds for Concern?

A decrease in the gross grain yield in 2018 as compared to the record-high yield of 2017 does not entail any risks to domestic consumption needs. With reserves taken into account, the 2018 yield is quite enough to meet households' needs in grain and cereal products, provide the livestock sector with concentrated fodder and underpin exports at the past three years' average level. The case for prices on meat products to be increased and grain exports limited allegedly due to a decrease in the gross grain yield and appreciation of grain prices is baseless