The agroholding "Steppe" (part of AFC "System") against the background of prolonged drought and low spring temperatures reports a 10% decrease in the yield of certain agricultural crops. The data was presented by the CEO of the agroholding, Andrey Neduzhko, according to the information from the "Interfax" agency.
Monitoring and analysis of the expected and actual yields of grain crops are conducted by the specialists of the agroholding "Steppe". Preliminary data indicate a 10% decrease in yield compared to the previous year. The deterioration of the indicators is attributed to unfavorable weather conditions, including drought and cold spring, noted Neduzhko.
Nevertheless, 70% of the new grain harvest belongs to the 3rd and 4th grade categories.
The harvesting of the main niche crops, including peas, chickpeas, flax, and mustard, has been completed in the agroholding. The CEO added that the reduction in yields of various crops ranges from 10% to 20%.
The harvesting campaign in the agroholding's farms began in mid-June, earlier than usual for the southern regions of Russia. It was noted in advance that natural conditions in spring would affect the decrease in yields. The company carried out additional planting of dead plants, which partially mitigated the consequences of unfavorable natural events.
In 2023, the agroholding set a new record for the collection of agricultural crops compared to 2022, harvesting 2.1 million tons (an increase of 8%). The wheat harvest amounted to 1.1 million tons.
Currently, "Steppe" is preparing for the autumn sowing campaign, maintaining the area of crop planting at the level of the previous year. Within the framework of the autumn sowing for 2025, winter wheat, barley, rapeseed, and other crops will be sown. The absolute sowing areas are not disclosed.
The work will begin in the Rostov cluster of the agroholding in early September, and by mid-September, sowings will be carried out in the farms of the Krasnodar and Stavropol clusters.
The company actively implements import substitution programs in various directions. This applies to sowing material, plant protection products, machinery, fertilizers, and other production means. "Steppe" uses only Russian breeding seeds for winter wheat and other grain crops. This year, the agroholding will also introduce its own variety of winter wheat called "System" into wide-scale use, created in collaboration with partners.
The agroholding "Steppe" was established in 2014 and is engaged in crop production, dairy livestock farming, agricultural product trading, as well as sugar and food sales. The assets of the agroholding are located in the Krasnodar and Stavropol regions, as well as in the Rostov region.