In Russia’s Krasnodar Krai (Kuban), potato prices have surged dramatically, with reports of a 100% increase over the past year. Consumers in Armavir are paying up to 300 RUB/kg in supermarkets, while discounted potatoes in Gulkevichi sell for 79 RUB/kg—but often with quality issues like rot.
Why Are Prices Rising?
Farmers cite multiple factors:
- Seed costs doubled (from 40 RUB/kg to 80 RUB/kg).
- Expensive inputs: Fuel, fertilizers, and crop protection costs have risen sharply.
- Middlemen markups: Resellers inflate spring prices before the local harvest.
Many growers have stopped planting potatoes altogether, fearing unprofitable returns. Alexander Lesnichiy, director of a Gulkevichi agro-firm, confirms last year’s starting price was 35 RUB/kg, but this year’s production costs will be at least double.
Will Summer Bring Relief?
Alexey Krasilnikov of the Potato and Vegetable Market Union predicts a price drop by early July as Kuban’s early harvest (from June) floods the market. However, global trends complicate the outlook:
- Global potato prices rose by 26% in 2023 (FAO).
- Russia’s vegetable inflation hit 12% year-on-year (Rosstat, 2024).
A Temporary Respite Ahead?
While summer may ease prices temporarily, long-term stability depends on reducing input costs, improving seed quality, and curbing middlemen profits. Farmers must weigh risks carefully, and policymakers should consider subsidies to sustain production.
