Southern Russia's farmers rethink crops to boost profits by 2026
A recent roundtable in Rostov-on-Don brought together over 30 agribusiness leaders to discuss the future of farming in southern Russia. Titled 'Southern Crop Farming 2026: Where to Find Profitability', the event focused on improving efficiency, current profits, and long-term sector growth. Organised by the Expert Yug analytical centre and supported by Kuban Credit Bank, the discussions highlighted key challenges and potential solutions for farmers. Farmers at the event revealed plans to adjust crop rotation strategies to increase yields by 2026. Many are shifting toward dicotyledonous crops, such as soybeans and sunflowers, while leaving some land fallow to restore soil health. These changes aim to counter declining profits caused by market fluctuations and rising costs.
One major shift involves reducing or abandoning flax cultivation due to falling prices. Farmers are instead exploring more profitable alternatives, though specific replacements were not detailed during the discussions. Lyudmila Labunko, Deputy Director of Corporate Business at Kuban Credit Bank’s Rostov Regional Directorate, addressed the gathering. She emphasised the need for agribusinesses to optimise existing processes while seeking new growth opportunities. Participants also stressed that increased state support and better infrastructure could help revive profitability in the struggling sector.
The roundtable concluded with a focus on practical steps to improve farming efficiency. Farmers will continue adapting crop choices and land management techniques to meet financial targets by 2026. Meanwhile, industry leaders and financial institutions will explore ways to strengthen support systems for the sector’s recovery.
