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The amount of meat consumption in Russia is increasing, but it is not only due to the warm summer weather, which usually encourages picnics in nature and shashlik grilling. The main reason for the growth in consumption is the increase in the population's income. Sergey Yushin, the head of the National Meat Association (NMA), talked about this in an interview for Agroinvestor magazine.
Yushin noted that despite the presence of good weather this summer in some regions, it was far from perfect. Therefore, many people did not want to spend time outdoors and prepare shashlik in extreme heat or cold. He also pointed out that the higher the income of the population, the more opportunities people have to buy and consume meat.
Yushin emphasized that the number of people with high incomes has sharply increased. The percentage of the population with incomes below the subsistence minimum has decreased to 8.5%. Truck drivers, self-employed individuals, and industrial workers have started to receive salaries that have increased by tens, and sometimes hundreds, of percent. These people need quality protein-rich food, and their incomes allow them to afford such luxury.
The NMA notes not only the overall increase in meat consumption but also changes in its structure. People who previously did not get enough animal protein started to buy meat more often. Some began eating pork, while those who ate pork started to prefer more expensive parts, such as ribs and brisket. There is also an increased demand for beef, which has been declining for a long time.
Overall, the NMA notes high growth rates in meat production. In the first eight months of 2024, meat production increased by 4.2%, including a 2% increase in poultry production, an 8% increase in beef, and a 6.1% increase in pork. The production growth matches the increased demand for meat. The only problem is the unsatisfactory demand for poultry, especially due to competition with cheap imported chicken from China.
Significant financial investments are needed in the industry to adapt to new consumer preferences, such as ready-made meals. This requires purchasing new equipment, but its cost has significantly increased. Rising prices for utilities, feed, and logistics also have a negative impact on producers' incomes.
According to Yushin, it is necessary to carefully analyze the financial aspects of meat production to anticipate the challenges the industry will face in the future. In the past, low meat prices led to shortages, and the unprofitability of production led to the degradation of the industry. Financial investments are needed to modernize production facilities.
In the end, the growth in meat consumption is encouraging, but it is essential to consider the financial aspects of production and forecast possible challenges and problems to avoid repeating past mistakes.
