Russia's Grain Harvest Numbers: Fact or Fiction?

Russia's official grain harvest estimates may be inflated by including annexed Ukrainian territories and using bunker weight. The agriculture ministry predicts 130 million tons, down from last year's 148 million. The Russian Grain Union criticizes such practices, questioning the accuracy of official data and calling for clear export plans.

There are concerns that Russia's grain harvest statistics are being manipulated to present a more favorable outcome. It is alleged that the figures include harvests from Ukrainian territories annexed by Russia, using bunker rather than clean weight to artificially boost numbers.

The agriculture ministry's forecast of 130 million tons for this year marks a decrease from last year's 148 million tons. Meanwhile, the Russian Grain Union estimates the harvest at 126 million tons of clean weight. The union suggests that the discrepancies are a bid by officials to maintain credibility before the government.

Criticism centers on the inclusion of annexed territories in harvest data and potential misrepresentations concerning winter grain sowing progress. Despite high carry-over stocks bolstering exports, the union has raised questions about the ministry's future export quotas.

(With inputs from agencies.)