Recent inspections by the Azov-Black Sea Branch of the Central Agricultural Quality Control Agency (FSBI “TsOK APK”) show that 63% of Crimean wheat from the 2025 harvest meets GOST 9353-2016 standards for food-grade grain. Irina Godylo, head of the inspection department, presented these findings at a meeting with the Republic of Crimea’s Ministry of Agriculture, highlighting key trends for agronomists and farm managers.
Key Findings from the 2025 Harvest Inspection
- Class Distribution:
- 46.9% Class 3 (high-quality food wheat, optimal protein & falling number)
- 15.6% Class 4 (suitable for bread production)
- 37.4% Class 5 (animal feed only)
- Scope of Testing: Over 140 agribusinesses (including farms and individual enterprises) across Crimea were audited.
- Compliance: All tested samples met GOST technical requirements, ensuring baseline marketability.
Agronomic and Economic Implications
- Profitability: With 62.6% food-grade wheat (Classes 3–4), Crimean producers can target premium markets, though 37.4% feed-grade wheat may pressure local fodder prices.
- Global Context: Russia’s total wheat exports are projected at 48–50 million tons in 2025/26 (IKAR), emphasizing the need for high-quality grain to maintain competitiveness.
- Production Challenges: Crimea’s arid conditions and soil salinity (up to 25% arable land affected, per Crimean Ag University) require drought-resistant varieties and precision irrigation to sustain Class 3 yields.
Expert Outlook
Godylo emphasized that Class 3 wheat from Crimea exhibits strong milling and baking properties, aligning with demand from flour producers. However, the high share of Class 5 wheat suggests gaps in cultivation practices or post-harvest handling.
The 2025 preliminary data underscores Crimea’s potential as a food wheat supplier, but targeted investments in soil management, seed technology, and grain drying/storage infrastructure could elevate the share of premium-grade grain. Farmers should prioritize quality-centric agronomy to capitalize on GOST-driven market opportunities.
Error
