Business news

New support measure for Belarus’ agricultural industry explained

An archive photo

MINSK, 22 October (BelTA) – In a move to bolster its agricultural industry, Belarus enacted Decree No. 375, establishing a system of raw material zones for processing plants effective. 20 October 2025, BelTA learned from the Agriculture and Food Ministry.

The decree authorizes regional executive committees to create these zones from among agricultural enterprises receiving state support. A key provision mandates that milk, cattle, and pork from these zones be supplied to specific meat and milk processing plants assigned by the regional authorities.

The Agriculture and Food Ministry explained that the measure aims to maximize utilization of processing capacities (targeting over 80%) and improve industry-wide efficiency. The ministry underscored the rationale: “This is especially important given that agricultural producers receive state support from national and local budgets. Thus, it is only logical for raw materials to be directed to enterprises that guarantee stable demand and processing.”

The mechanism, which is already operational in Vitebsk Oblast and Minsk Oblast, does not affect pricing or restrict enterprises outside the designated zones. However, for agricultural enterprises receiving state support, selling their products within their raw material zone will be a mandatory condition for future assistance.

“This move bolsters the production-processing-market vertical, reduces the risk of capacity downtime, and ensures food security in the country,” the Agriculture and Food Ministry concluded. 

print version

make home page

add to bookmarks