An archive photo

MINSK, 3 August (BelTA) – Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko heard a report from Minister of Agriculture and Food Yuri Gorlov on 3 August, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian leader.

The key topics of the meeting included the progress of the harvesting campaign and crop yield forecasts, winter crops planting, and the implementation of the president’s instructions on constructing calf housing facilities.

Belarusian farmers have already harvested more than 4.6 million tonnes of grain. Brest Oblast and Minsk Oblast are the first to hit the million-tonne milestone, with Grodno Oblast on track to cross the mark soon. Given the current crop conditions in the fields and other favorable factors, this year’s total harvest is projected to match or exceed last year’s output.

As reported to the head of state, almost 90% of the winter rapeseed crop in Belarus has already been harvested. The harvesting of spring barley and winter rye is entering its final stages. In parallel, farmers are harvesting winter and spring wheat along with winter triticale, which are the main drivers of maximum crop yields.

Alongside the ongoing harvest, Belarus is gearing up for the winter crops planting season, a topic that was covered in detail during the meeting with the president. Over half of the designated land is already prepared for winter rapeseed, with northern districts already kicking off the planting campaign. The country aims to sow 457,000 hectares of winter rapeseed, matching last year’s footprint. Farmers are on a strict deadline to complete the rapeseed sowing by 25 August.

Aleksandr Lukashenko reviewed the progress of construction of calf housing facilities alongside ongoing summer harvesting. Out of 528 facilities planned for 2026, 161 have already been built. All units are required to be fully operational by 1 October under the approved schedule.

The president pointed to the requirement for strict adherence to technical standards. In addition to the construction of calf facilities, all necessary technological equipment must be manufactured and installed on schedule. It was also stressed that the newly built calf barns must not stand empty.