In 2024, the Kuban region in Russia hit an impressive new milestone in rice production, gathering a total of 862,000 tons of rice. This achievement not only underscores Kuban’s role as the powerhouse of Russian rice cultivation but also demonstrates the country’s growing self-reliance in producing this essential crop. The milestone was announced by Andrey Korobka, Deputy Governor of the Krasnodar Territory, who highlighted the importance of both increased planting areas and new seed technology in achieving these results.
Expanded Cultivation Area and High Yields
This year, rice planting areas in Kuban expanded from 110,000 to 117,400 hectares. This significant increase contributed to the record yield, as farmers saw yields surpassing 100 centners (10,000 kg) per hectare in some locations—a major accomplishment in Russian rice farming. Much of this success is attributed to new varieties developed by the Federal Rice Research Center, which have proven resilient and productive in Kuban’s unique conditions.
Kuban’s Dominance in Russian Rice Production
Kuban continues to produce around 70% of all Russian rice, a share that emphasizes the region’s vital role in national food security. Over 100 enterprises in Kuban are dedicated to rice production, with prominent players including AFG National Agro, Krasnoarmeisky (named after A.I. Maistrenko), Agrofirm Privolye, and Agrocomplex named after N.I. Tkachev. Major rice-growing areas include Krasnoarmeisky, Slavyansky, and Kalininsky districts, which lead the region in planted hectares and production volume.
Looking to the Future: Goals for 2030
Looking forward, the Kuban region aims to increase rice production to 1.3 million tons by 2030, with an expansion of planting areas to 150,000 hectares. This ambitious goal requires improvements to rice irrigation infrastructure and expansion of water reservoir capacity to meet increasing water demand. To reach these goals, regional authorities are planning projects to clear and expand the water reservoirs that supply Kuban’s rice fields, ensuring sustainable resources for future growth.
The 2024 rice harvest in Kuban highlights the power of strategic investments in agriculture, from seed innovation to water infrastructure. As Kuban sets its sights on 2030 targets, the success of the 2024 season serves as a promising indicator for the region’s—and Russia’s—agricultural resilience and productivity. With ongoing efforts to expand and improve rice production, Kuban is set to remain a cornerstone of Russia’s agricultural landscape for years to come.
Error
