Belarus has introduced mandatory size requirements for apples supplied to state-ordered retail chains. Government officials report that the measure follows consumer complaints about small-sized fruits and vegetables during the previous season. The minimum potato diameter for state contracts has been raised from 35 to 45 millimeters, while the upper limit remains 80 millimeters. Grading standards have also been introduced for apples, although exact parameters have not yet been published. The technical document was signed by Prime Minister Alyaksandr Turchyn.
The government has also decided to expand strategic reserves of potatoes, cabbage, carrots, beets, and onions in stabilization funds. The aim is to limit seasonal price fluctuations and maintain a consistent supply. According to the Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade, the country had completed 96.4 per cent of its planned "borscht set" and apple procurement as of 10 November. Apple procurement is lagging by about 20 per cent and must be completed by 15 November. Weather-related yield reductions contributed to lower apple availability, with some farms harvesting far fewer apples than last year.
Products held in the stabilization fund will be sold at fixed prices. Potatoes will be priced at no more than 1.07 rubles per kilogram, approximately US$0.32. Onions will be sold at up to 1.68 rubles, approximately US$0.50. Apples will be sold at up to 4.8 rubles, around US$1.45.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food reports that potato production reached adequate levels this year. Large agricultural enterprises harvested 675,000 tonnes, which is 125,000 tonnes more than last season, with yields above 2024 levels. All regions reportedly exceeded their potato production targets.
Belarus experienced a potato shortage and sharp price increases in spring 2025. Belstat reported potato prices rose 31 per cent in 2024. By the end of August 2025, prices were 22.3 per cent higher than in December 2024. In June, the figure reached 127.8 per cent. President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has repeatedly warned retailers regarding stock availability, stating he would take action against stores that failed to keep potatoes on shelves.
Source: BelSat
