Mikhail Mishchenko: Belarus is an example of high quality control of dairy products

Earlier it was reported that Mikhail Mishchenko said: "Russia accounts for 98% in the structure of dairy products export of the Republic of Belarus. The Belarusians are now actively trying to start selling in other countries.

The Head of foreign economic activity of the Belarusian Ministry of agriculture and food Alexey Bogdanov, whom we got in touch, commented on this situation: "Yes indeed, the share of the Russian market in the structure of exports of Belarusian dairy products is high and this is understandable due to historical traditions, shared preferences in the culture of consumption of dairy products, and also fits in the framework of the gravity model of foreign trade. But aside from this, we understand risks of the current situation. Therefore, the Ministry of agriculture is actively working to diversify Belarusian agricultural exports."

The representative of the Ministry of agriculture noted that during the first half of 2017, Russia's share in Belarusian exports of agricultural products decreased by 3 percentage points, while the geographical export has expanded to 60 countries, and 16 countries were discovered by Belarus for the first time. "In monetary terms, exports rose to all regions. For example, to the CIS countries (without Russia) – 1.7 times, to Asia and Oceania - 2.7 times, to Africa – 6 times, to America – 1.9 times, even to the EU countries, exports grew by 56% compared to last year. So diversification is here!" - said Alexey Bogdanov.

He also said that the supply of dairy products to China for 6 months this year increased 97 times and exceeded the amount of 3.5 million dollars, and the range is wide enough – dry dairy products, butter, cheese and milk in consumer packaging. We will remind that the Belarusian Ministry of agriculture and food has certified 36 dairy plants for export to China, and in July this year opened access of beef to this country.

"Of course, if there were any weaknesses in the quality and safety of food, in its control by the veterinary and phytosanitary services, it would be simply impossible to achieve such a result!" the expert said in conclusion.

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