Russia Faces 2.5–3 Million Ton Potato Storage Deficit, Threatening Self-Sufficiency and Market Stability

Russia currently lacks sufficient storage capacity for 2.5 to 3 million tons of potatoes, a shortfall that undermines the country’s ability to achieve full self-sufficiency between harvest seasons, according to Alexey Krasilnikov, Executive Director of the Potato Union. In an interview, he explained that while modern technologies and equipment for long-term storage of potatoes and vegetables already exist, construction costs remain prohibitive and require robust state support. However, federal funding often goes unused because regional authorities are not always prepared to co-finance such projects, leaving allocated money unspent for its intended purpose—a situation Krasilnikov described as deeply regrettable.

This storage deficit not only hampers national food security but also distorts market dynamics. Growers without their own facilities are forced to sell their harvest at rock-bottom prices straight from the fields during September–October, flooding the market and undercutting other producers. Krasilnikov estimated that Russia needs about 12 million tons of potatoes annually for full self-sufficiency, though Rosstat data—including private household plots—puts production closer to 18 million tons. The Potato Union, however, considers that figure somewhat inflated. Without adequate storage infrastructure, price volatility persists, and the economic viability of potato farming remains precarious, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated federal and regional investment in modern storage facilities.