Dagestani farmers provided differing perspectives from the Republic's Ministry of Agriculture concerning this year's cherry yields. The Ministry cited spring frosts as the reason for a reduced harvest, estimating it at slightly over 11,000 tons, a decline from the typical yield of about 22,000 tons due to frost damage, as reported on their Telegram channel on June 29. Farmers, however, reported a decent harvest without major frost issues, noting that heavy rains were the only unfavorable weather condition affecting yields.
Wholesale and retail companies in Dagestan primarily distribute local cherries within the republic, with notable supply channels to Moscow, Rostov Oblast, and Krasnodar Krai. Rasim from the Derbent district highlighted that commodity prices varied based on variety and harvest timing.
Economist Rashid Abakarov explained that crop loss compensation is typically available only in documented cases or when the federal or regional government categorizes an event as an emergency, such as a large-scale drought or frost. He noted that the region lacks major agricultural production facilities that could impact agricultural product availability significantly. Nevertheless, political scientist Alber Esedov noted that cherry prices surged by over 40%, a concern when cherries cost less outside the republic.
The journalist noted that despite high local prices, Dagestan's cherries are cheaper in markets elsewhere. This discrepancy arises from speculative trading actions rather than actual supply shortages. Concerns were raised about the efficiency of the regional Ministry of Agriculture in forecasting and addressing these market imbalances despite proximity to countries like Kyrgyzstan, suggesting potential for importing cherries to stabilize local prices.
Throughout the cherry market discussions, quotes from Telegram by economist Natalya Zubarevich highlighted broader agricultural challenges due to cold weather across Russia affecting various crops, but also emphasized the perceived discrepancy between reported damages and market behaviors. This complexity of factors sets a challenging scene for high-tech greenhouse and traditional growers navigating yields and market logistics within Dagestan and beyond.
Source: Caucasian Knot
