MOSCOW, August 18 (Itar-Tass) — Russia’s grain output will reach 85-90 million tonnes in 2011, Agriculture Minister Yelena Skrynnik told reporters on Thursday.
“I confirm the earlier announced grain production forecast for this year – 85-90 million tonnes,” she said noting that changes to the forecast are not ruled out.
“As soon as the Siberian and Urals federal districts begin a mass grain harvesting campaign, we will see whether changes will be made or not. But I am confident that if they take place, they will be only positive,” Skrynnik said.
At present, over 50 million tonnes of grain have been milled in the country.
Russia’s grain export forecast for this year is 20-23 million tonnes.
Skrynnik underlined that “the prices keep steady on the world market therefore it is advantageous for us to sell grain on external markets.”
Along with this she noted that grain prices register a decreasing trend on the domestic market over good harvest expectations.