Viktor Zubkov, who is responsible for agriculture policy matters in the Government Cabinet, informed the President about new measures on loans for agriculture producers, financing for big investment projects, and support for grain exports. In particular, Mr Zubkov spoke about support through Rosagroleasing for the Rostselmash Company, which is one of the world’s biggest producers of combine harvesters and agricultural equipment.
Furthermore, the charter capital of Rosselkhozbank (Russian Agricultural Bank) will be increased by 35 billion roubles (around $1.25 billion), and that of state agriculture industry company Rosagroleasing will be increased by 12.5 billion roubles (around $450 million). Total loans to the agriculture sector in 2009 will come to 866 billion roubles (around $31 billion).
Mr Zubkov also announced that drafting of Russia’s Food Security Doctrine has been completed and the document will be submitted to the Presidential Executive Office before December 15.
Mr Medvedev noted the importance of this document at this time of global food crisis.