Russia unexpectedly reduced its imports of Chinese potatoes in June, marking the first decline after eight consecutive months of growth, according to Chinese customs data reviewed by RIA Novosti.
In June, Russian buyers purchased 31,200 tons of potatoes from China, 12.4% less than in May. The value of imports also dropped from $14.6 million to $12.6 million.
This decline contrasts with previous years, where June typically saw a surge in imports due to seasonal demand. The current reduction is likely linked to improved domestic harvest expectations. According to Russia's Ministry of Agriculture, early potato yields in mid-July were up 36% year-on-year, reaching 240,000 tons.
In the first half of the year, a record 128,600 tons of potatoes worth $49.4 million were brought in from China. Both figures are nearly six times higher than the same period last year.
Source: ria.ru
