MINSK, 1 August (BelTA) - Belarus plans to increase the production of milk and meat, Belarusian Agriculture and Food Minister Igor Brylo said in an interview to ONT TV channel, BelTA has learned.
“Belarus has not exported grain in recent years, as the country has been using a large amount of it in cattle breeding. The production in the agro-industrial complex is expected to grow by about 4.5% this year. We plan to increase milk and meat production volumes. This requires fodder, including mixed fodder. Grain is the basis of it. For us it is imperative to meet the needs of domestic livestock and, of course, provide food for our people,” Igor Brylo said and emphasized that Belarus is a self-sufficient in food.
The government has set a goal of $7.8 billion for food exports in 2022. “We need to add more than $1 billion to the previous year's level. This is a significant figure. Therefore, it is very important for us to sell the final product in the form of dairy and meat products,” the minister said.
According to him, Russia accounts for some 70% of Belarus' total exports. “We export a good amount of products to the CIS countries. Most importantly, we are developing exports to far-away countries. Supplies to China are on the rise. Our products are really in demand,” Igor Brylo stressed.
