Amur Oblast, Russia’s soybean powerhouse, is witnessing an unprecedented surge in potato imports from China—39 times higher than previous levels. According to Rosselkhoznadzor, 40,000 tons of Chinese potatoes have entered the region in 2025, doubling the local harvest from last year. Meanwhile, Amur’s farmers produced just 20,000 tons in 2024, a 30% drop from the previous year.
Why Are Local Farmers Abandoning Potatoes?
Despite government incentives—50% subsidies for equipment and 70% compensation for storage facilities—farmers remain reluctant. Key challenges include:
- Lack of guaranteed demand: Retail chains demand pre-washed, packaged potatoes, requiring costly investments in processing.
- Storage deficits: Most farmers sell immediately post-harvest, leaving shelves empty by winter.
- Price competition: Chinese potatoes sell for 46–59 RUB/kg, undercutting local producers whose costs exceed 80–100 RUB/kg for early-season varieties.
Market Shifts and Consumer Preferences
While imports stabilize prices, consumers complain about quality. Pensioner Nina Semyonova remarks, “Chinese potatoes taste watery and bland.” Yet, with 96,000 tons consumed annually in Amur and local production dwindling, reliance on imports grows.
Global and Regional Price Trends
Unlike western Russia, where potato prices hit 140 RUB/kg, Amur’s prices remain stable (56–61 RUB/kg). However, per capita consumption (128 kg/year vs. the 90 kg norm) highlights dependency on the crop.
A Crossroads for Amur’s Agriculture
Amur’s potato sector is at a tipping point. Without stronger support for storage, processing, and fair pricing, local farmers risk being outpaced by Chinese imports. Strategic investments and policy reforms are crucial to reviving domestic production and ensuring long-term food security.
