Wedoany.com Report-Jun 23, Russia has approved the resumption of genetically modified (GM) soybean imports for producing animal feed destined for export, according to a new government decree. This step ensures feed producers can operate smoothly even if domestic soybean harvests decline.

In 2016, Russia banned GM plants and animals in food production but allowed GM soybean imports for animal feed in 2020. After a record 7.04 million-ton soybean harvest in 2024, up from 6.83 million tons in 2023, Russia paused these imports in January 2025. Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut said: “Authorities would assess how this suspension of GMO soybeans imports would affect the market.” Analysts note most GM soybeans come from South America.

The renewed import permission stabilizes the feed industry. The IKAR agency estimates soybean meal exports at 400,000 to 500,000 tons this season. OleoSope reported a 56% decline in soybean meal exports to 161,000 tons in early 2025, with Belarus and Uzbekistan leading purchases, followed by Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan. In June 2025, Agroexport reported Morocco as a new market for Russian soybean meal.

While Russia does not publish export figures, this policy supports the feed sector’s capacity to meet domestic and global needs.