The agricultural sector in Primorsky Krai has achieved notable success in 2024, harvesting 537 tons of rice with a yield of 30 centners per hectare. This strong performance follows a strategic expansion of rice cultivation in the region, with rice fields now covering 14,000 hectares—an increase of 4,000 hectares compared to the previous year.
High Yield and Expanding Acreage
This year’s rice harvest was particularly promising, thanks to the increase in cultivated land and favorable growing conditions. Farmers in the Khorolsky Municipal District, one of the key rice-producing areas in Primorsky Krai, have already harvested about 180 hectares of rice fields. The region’s focus on expanding its rice acreage has been a crucial factor in boosting overall production. With rice now covering 14,000 hectares, this represents a 40% increase from 2023.
The Role of Infrastructure in Boosting Production
At the recent Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), an important agreement was reached to modernize Primorsky Krai’s rice irrigation systems. This initiative is expected to significantly improve rice production capacity, enabling the region to potentially reach an annual output of 150,000 tons. Upgrading irrigation systems is crucial for maintaining stable yields, particularly in the face of climate variability and water management challenges.
Rice cultivation in Primorsky Krai has traditionally relied on efficient water management due to the region’s distinct climatic conditions. With modernized irrigation, farmers will be better equipped to control water distribution, reduce wastage, and optimize the growth cycle. The implementation of these improvements is seen as a key factor in the future growth of the rice sector in the region.
Soybean Harvest Also Underway
Rice is not the only crop contributing to the region’s agricultural productivity. Soybean harvesting is also in full swing, with farmers targeting 146,000 hectares. The areas focused on soybean production include Mikhailovsky, Oktyabrsky, Pogranichny, Khorolsky, and Chernigovsky districts, as well as Ussuriysk. Soybeans, a major export crop for Primorsky Krai, contribute to the region’s growing agricultural exports, supporting both local economies and international trade.
Primorsky Krai’s agricultural sector is making significant strides with this year’s successful rice harvest and continued expansion of cultivated land. The region’s forward-thinking approach, including plans for modernizing irrigation systems, is setting the stage for sustained growth in rice production. With the potential to reach 150,000 tons annually, Primorsky Krai is positioning itself as a key player in the Russian rice market and beyond.
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