Russia’s Agricultural Sector: Production Growth Amid Livestock Decline

In January 2025, Russia’s agricultural production increased by 2.1% compared to the same period last year, according to Rosstat. Preliminary estimates show that the total agricultural output across all producer categories, including agricultural enterprises, farmers, and household farms, reached 290.2 billion rubles in current prices.

Livestock Population Decline
Despite overall production growth, a decrease in livestock numbers was recorded in January. According to Rosstat’s calculations, by the end of the month, the cattle population stood at 16.3 million head, 4.4% less than the previous year. The number of cows decreased by 3.9% to 7.2 million head.
A similar trend was observed in other types of livestock:
• The pig population fell by 2.5% to 28 million head.
• The number of sheep and goats declined by 4.7% to 19 million head.
Household farms remain a significant part of livestock production. As of late January, 37.5% of cattle, 5.2% of pigs, and 44.6% of sheep and goats were in household farms. A year earlier, these figures were 37.5%, 5.7%, and 45.4%, respectively.

Growth in Milk, Meat, and Egg Production
Despite the decline in livestock numbers, agricultural enterprises continue to increase production. In January 2025, the slaughter volume of livestock and poultry (live weight) increased by 1.6% compared to January 2024. Milk production grew by 4.5%, while egg production rose by 5.7%.
Dairy productivity also improved. In large agricultural enterprises (excluding small businesses), the average milk yield per cow in January 2025 reached 789 kg, compared to 742 kg in January 2024. The average egg production per laying hen remained at 26 eggs per month, the same as a year ago.

Trends in the Fishing and Aquaculture Sector
The fishing and aquaculture sector also showed significant growth. The turnover of companies engaged in this industry reached 52 billion rubles in January 2025, 21.1% more than in the same period of 2024. However, compared to December 2024, this figure decreased by 24.5%.

Rosstat’s data indicates that Russia’s agricultural sector maintains a positive production trend, even as livestock numbers decline. The increase in meat, milk, and egg production, along with improved dairy farm productivity, highlights the sector’s resilience. However, the reduction in livestock numbers may require additional measures to ensure stable growth in the future.

🔑 Key Takeaways:
• Production growth: Agricultural output increased by 2.1%.
• Declining livestock numbers: Fewer cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats.
• More milk, meat, and eggs: Production continues to rise.