Arkhangelsk Oblast has positioned itself as a leader in the production of elite seed potatoes, thanks to its favorable phytosanitary conditions and climate, which help maintain disease-free crops. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Trade of Arkhangelsk Oblast, the region produces around 3,000 tons of high-reproduction seed potatoes annually, with over 50% exported to other Russian regions, including Krasnodar Krai, Rostov, and Nizhny Novgorod.
Key Players in Seed Potato Production
Three major enterprises drive the region’s seed potato sector:
- Kotlasskaya Experimental Station (a branch of the A.G. Lorkh Potato Research Institute)
- Agrofirma Kholmogorskaya LLC
- APK Lyubovskoye LLC
These facilities utilize cutting-edge technology, including meristematic laboratories, microtuber greenhouses, microclonal propagation labs, and enzyme immunoassay testing. This ensures the production of virus-free, high-yielding potato varieties.
A National Bank of Healthy Potato Varieties
Arkhangelsk maintains a bank of 169 potato varieties, including 112 Russian-bred cultivars and 29 hybrids. This genetic diversity supports sustainable farming and reduces dependency on imported seeds—a critical factor under Russia’s national project “Technological Support for Food Security,” which aims to increase domestic seed supply to 75% by 2030.
Strong Market Demand & Future Growth
The region’s seed potatoes are particularly sought after in southern Russia, where farmers report high yields. For example, Agrofirma Kholmogorskaya supplied 45 tons of elite-grade “Red Scarlett” to Krasnodar in 2025, with plans for repeat orders in 2026.
To further boost production, the regional government offers subsidies of up to 60,000 rubles per hectare, covering costs for seeds, machinery, fertilizers, and storage facilities.
Arkhangelsk Oblast’s focus on elite seed potato production demonstrates how regional specialization, scientific innovation, and government support can strengthen food security and agricultural sustainability. With increasing demand and continued investment, the region is set to remain a key supplier of high-quality seed potatoes in Russia.
