The return of Western agricultural machinery brands will destroy mechanical engineering in Russia. This opinion was shared by Konstantin Babkin, co-owner of Rostselmash.
Russia does not have the best conditions for production. Our metal is more expensive, electricity is more expensive, taxes are more expensive, and loans are more expensive.
He noted that it would be more profitable for farmers to purchase equipment from Western manufacturers, as their cost includes a lower cost price. Direct imports will affect prices, as the markup for logistics through third countries will disappear.
If they (foreign brands) come again, that is, everything returns as it was, the borders are opened for imports, then yes — within a few years, mechanical engineering in agriculture will disappear in our country.
Babkin also recalled that the mechanical engineering market in Russia had already experienced a crisis in 2010, but the "1432" program introduced by the government contributed to an increase in equipment production. This program allowed farmers to purchase domestic equipment at a discount, and the difference was compensated by the state.
However, in 2023, the program's budget was significantly reduced — from 8 to 2 billion rubles. This reduced funding by four times in just one year.
Earlier, www1.ru reported that Russia is almost completely dependent on foreign machine tools.
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