When describing the current situation in agriculture, the President stressed that in recent years this sector has changed dramatically for the better: during Soviet times Russia bought 30 million tonnes of wheat per year whereas today Russia is the third largest exporter of wheat after the United States and Canada. In connection with this, Vladimir Putin said that there are new challenges and problems associated with the increasing demand for wheat on international markets and the increase in global prices.
The President noted that Russia must consider what should be done so that it can assume its rightful place in international markets and, at the same time, protect the interests of Russian consumers. In particular, meeting participants need to think about how the state can help producers who work in this industry.
Vladimir Putin referred to this meeting as preparatory. He said that another meeting on the same subject but with broader attendance will be held in about a month.