The soybean yield in the Lipetsk region set a new record, with agricultural enterprises harvesting 345,000 tons last year.

Every year, the area allocated for soybean cultivation in the region is increasing, leading to a growth in the total yield.

Ten years ago, the area planted with soybeans was 34 thousand hectares, yielding 51 thousand tons. Last year, the area designated for this export-oriented oilseed crop increased to 149 thousand hectares, allowing agricultural enterprises in the Lipetsk region to harvest a record 345 thousand tons.

Currently, 192.8 thousand hectares have been allocated for soybean cultivation, with 151.1 thousand tons harvested as of September 19.

The processing capacity for oilseed crops, including soybeans, continues to grow. In 2022, one of the largest oil extraction plants specializing in soybean processing was opened in the Yelets district. In 2023, this plant produced 69 thousand tons of soybean oil, and in the first seven months of this year, it has already produced 64.2 thousand tons, a 77% increase compared to the same period last year. The plant produces both soybean oil and soybean meal, which is in demand in livestock farming due to its high protein content.

"This year, the Lipetsk region has become one of the top ten regions in the country in terms of soybean cultivation area," notes Sergey Kuzovlev, head of the regional Department of Agriculture. "Soybeans are considered one of the most profitable crops with stable demand. Furthermore, the increase in processing capacity in the country is encouraging our agricultural producers to increase their harvest levels."

Soybeans have significant export potential. Farmers in the Lipetsk region are increasing the production volumes of soy and its processed products.