DRIBIN DISTRICT, 13 March (BelTA) – Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko called for faster development of pedigree livestock breeding in Belarus as he visited a breeding farm in Dribin District that specializes in raising Hereford beef cattle, BelTA has learned.
“If you are able to export right now and demand is high, just say what you need. We’ll make it happen. This project will pay for itself. We need to give them the green light, since there is demand for these products,” the Belarusian leader emphasized. “We need to invest in Dribin. We have to invest. The people here are ready to work. We’ll help with that. But there must be order and iron discipline. That depends on the person in charge.”
Aleksandr Lukashenko inquired in general about further plans for constructing livestock facilities, particularly those for beef production. He noted that the experience of Dribin District could primarily be used in Vitebsk Oblast. But clear calculations are needed.
“Exports are a critically important issue for us. If there is demand, we need to try to jump in,” the president emphasized.
At the same time, the head of state remarked that everything must be done thoughtfully, taking into account the real possibilities of filling livestock complexes so that they do not stand empty.
“We need to calculate this, we need to see the potential. We should start with Vitebsk Oblast. And we must not get it wrong. I need accurate figures,” the Belarusian leader added.
The president did not rule out that at some point the cattle will be needed not only for export but also to stock domestic complexes in Belarus. So this sector should be actively developed. “With profitability around 18% and such strong demand, failing to pursue this would be criminal,” he said.
The president stressed that beef cattle development plans are a promising opportunity for Dribin District - and a key reason for his visit.
“Work with the governor on developing Dribin District. Maybe bring in part of Shklov District [to help with these projects] and build up the area properly. But take the land as whole farms,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said. “We need to figure out what else we can do here besides dairy. Milk is profitable now. Let’s make beef just as profitable. It’s a solid direction. With demand out there, why wouldn’t we develop it? The government needs to seriously work this out. We need to decide where else to build complexes, and make sure they are fully stocked.”
“I want to see order, common sense, and people feeling good here. But for that, we need production facilities,” the president emphasized. “This is a good region; it needs development. We need to figure out how to breathe more life into it. I’m ready to help make that happen.”
At the farm, Aleksandr Lukashenko was presented with a heifer that is expected to calve soon. “She will be well taken care of at my place. I promise that,” he assured.
The president assessed what he saw at the breeding farm very positively. However, he recalled the issue of cattle mortality, emphasizing the unacceptability of such incidents. Aleksandr Lukashenko has a particular attitude towards this: “I cannot stand it when animals die. Especially a calf. I grew up in the countryside. Now, I keep sheep and goats.”
Pedigree cattle breeding in Belarus has considerable growth potential. Specifically, the Belarusian state association for livestock breeding Belplemzhivobyedinenie plans to double the country’s livestock population over the five-year period by developing breeding farms in five regions of the country (apart from Minsk Oblast).
The current pedigree livestock population is approximately 5,000 head, with an anticipated increase to 10,000 by the year 2030.
Relevant experience has already been gained and implemented in Dribin District. After the decision was made in 2021 to establish a breeding farm for cattle, the necessary facilities were repaired, reconstructed, and built here. All work was carried out using their own funds and attracted loans, which are currently being repaid on time.
The farm specializes in raising Hereford cattle. This breed is among the most popular beef cattle breeds in the world. It is distinguished by high endurance, undemanding nature, and calm temperament. Animals of this breed adapt perfectly to cold weather and gain weight quickly. Their meat has a uniform fat marbling and is considered “marbled beef”.
The animals have a dark red coat and a stocky build. The weight of bulls reaches 900-1350 kg.
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