Russia will harvest the lowest buckwheat harvest in the 21st century

Russia is forecasting its lowest gross buckwheat harvest since the beginning of the 21st century, which is already causing concern among market participants and consumers. Analysts say the situation is a repeat of the 2014 crisis, when buckwheat prices doubled due to a reduction in areas and a poor harvest, and retail chains imposed sales limits. This year, farmers have reduced the area sown by about 32%, which, in conditions of unstable weather, creates the prerequisites for a shortage.

The reduction in crops was a consequence of low purchase prices in previous seasons, when it was unprofitable for producers to sow buckwheat. Now, when the area has decreased to a critical minimum, the country risks facing a shortage of this crop, which is traditionally part of the diet of the majority of the population. A decrease in supply inevitably pushes prices up, and consumers have already begun to buy up cereals for storage.

Despite assurances from Russian officials that the situation is “under control,” the harvest in Altai Krai, the main producer of buckwheat, is being delayed due to rainfall. This region accounts for more than half of the country’s gross harvest, so any reduction in production here directly affects the overall balance. Even if weather conditions improve, the harvest will be significantly lower than in previous years.

According to estimates by the Prozerno analytical center, the total buckwheat harvest in Russia in 2025 will be about 880,000–900,000 tons, the lowest figure in the past two decades. This volume may not be enough for stable domestic consumption, which will increase price pressure and force the authorities to reduce exports.

Tags: Russia, Buckwheat, crop forecast