MINSK, 6 April (BelTA) – Belarus plans to increase milk production by almost 2 million tonnes or nearly a quarter during the five-year period, Agriculture and Food Minister Igor Brylo told reporters in Kobrin on 6 April, BelTA has learned.
“The task is to increase milk production by almost 2 million tonnes and to boost milk export over the five-year period. We work hard to boost the export, diversify markets, as this is the Klondike, the source of foreign currency that the agricultural industry should earn for the country. Of course, our priority is to meet domestic needs in foodstuffs and the rest will be exported,” the minister said.
This goal is to be achieved primarily through the upgrade of the livestock industry, namely by means of construction and renovation of dairy complexes, cattle complexes, poultry farms, and due to introduction of modern technology. This year, there are plans to build up to 50 new dairy complexes throughout the country. “We are gradually shutting down old farms, increasing milk production at new complexes. This is our strategy – to build advanced agricultural facilities to increase the output of agricultural products that are in demand in the world,” Igor Brylo said.
On 6 April Kobrin is hosting an event to celebrate winners of the annual regional competition for the best results in livestock production in 2021. The minister thanked rural workers for their hard work and dedication, and their efforts to ensure the country's food security.
“Nearly all types of food products are available in the country. We are self-sufficient in many ways when it comes to foodstuffs. We are an exporting country. Our products are sold in 112 countries - we trade with almost the whole world. Brest Oblast accounts for more than a quarter of the country's total food exports, and I am sure that in the next few years the region's share will approach a third,” Igor Brylo said.
He presented letters of commendation and anniversary medals to the best workers of the agricultural industry. The highest award of the Agriculture and Food Ministry - the badge of distinction For Services to Agriculture was awarded to Brest Oblast Governor Yuri Shuleiko.
