Farmers in Russia’s Chelyabinsk region are gradually increasing the share of domestically bred potatoes on their fields. Experts note that purchasing imported seeds means investing in foreign developments, while Russia — and the Urals in particular — has its own selection that is resistant to local climate conditions and diseases. The regional Ministry of Agriculture supports potato-growing enterprises, offering higher subsidies to those who use domestic seeds. According to Anna Kozhevina, head of crop production and small-scale farming development at the ministry, the support for potato farming in 2026 is unprecedented: 14.4 million rubles per ton and 9 million rubles per hectare. Farmers can recover between 50% and 100% of direct costs for elite seeds, fertilizers, and the construction of potato storage facilities.
The Southern Urals finished 2025 with strong results, harvesting 149,900 tons of potatoes at a record yield of 260 centners per hectare, achieving 125% self-sufficiency. However, a reduction in planting areas—from 7,500 to 5,300 hectares—is now causing concern, and the decline is expected to continue in 2026. The main reasons include labor shortages, lack of machinery, and difficulties with product sales. While buyers value taste and appearance, and retailers focus on volume and looks, many farmers still prefer imported varieties. Kairat Satbayev, head of the South Ural Research Institute of Horticulture and Potato Growing, explained that entrepreneurs are reluctant to take risks with expensive elite seeds and stick to proven varieties that retail chains are willing to purchase. Despite these challenges, the region plans to harvest 101,500 tons of potatoes this year, aligning with national food security goals.
