Belarus has strengthened its system of state food reserves, known locally as ''stabilization funds'' and introduced stricter rules for retailers to guarantee year-round access to vegetables and apples.
Under the Presidential Decree and a government resolution adopted in July 2025, food reserves have been moved into a state procurement system. Retailers can now access one-year loans to prepay suppliers, and deliveries from storage facilities must follow fixed schedules. To prevent shortages, the volume of produce allocated for the upcoming 2025/26 off-season has been increased by more than 20%.
In parallel, amendments to the Administrative Code impose fines on suppliers and retailers who fail to deliver or stock reserve products. Penalties range from €70 to €2,000. This ensures that from November through May, Belarusian consumers will have steady access to potatoes, carrots, beets, cabbage, onions, and apples at regulated prices.
Source: pravo.by