Tkachev: the cancellation of food embargo has to be discussed with the removal of counter restrictions

"If the question is about opening the Russian market to products from countries in respect of which the restrictions are imposed, then it should be approached carefully and with consideration of the interests of each party. First and foremost, when making decisions, we will proceed from the considerations of upholding the interests of our agricultural producers, who during the period of the response measures invested in new projects", — said Tkachev.

"The question of full or partial lifting of restrictions on the supply of agricultural products to the Russian market should be discussed in conjunction with the removal of reciprocal limitations against the Russian dairy products, poultry, beef, mutton," added the Minister.

According to him, Russian consumers with the permission of the supply of products from countries that fall under the restrictions will get a wider range. On the other hand, Russian producers have already made significant achievements in import substitution. "Over the past seven years, grain production has increased by a third, during 10 years production of poultry meat increased three times, pork — twice. Today Russia fully provides itself with grain, meat, vegetable oil, sugar, potatoes" — gave an example of Tkachev.

He noted that other countries are convinced that Russia can not only trade oil, but also become the world's leading agricultural empire. "At the end of last year, Russia increased its exports of agricultural products by 4%, to $ 17 billion. And this is due to the expansion of supply of grain, vegetable oil, fish," — said the head of the Ministry.

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