November 13 2003, 12:08 Interfax

Russia increases imports of foodstuffs and agricultural raw materials from CIS countries

According to operative customs statistics the share of foodstuffs and agricultural raw materials in total volume of Russia's imports from CIS countries over the 9 months of 2003 constituted 21.2 percent against 19.2 percent over the same months last year, Interfax news agency has informed.

Imports of barley in January-September made 31,500 tonnes, which is 18 times more than the amount imported in the same months last year. Import of wheat from CIS countries increased 70 percent - up to 404,700 tonnes. Experts account such rates of increase in the imports on the fact that last year foreign purchases of these crops were minimal.

According to Russia's State Customs Committee, Russia in January-September increased imports of foodstuffs and agricultural raw materials in other than CIS countries 5.9 percent in comparison with the same period last year. The supplies of condensed milk and cream made 4,200 tonnes, which is 39.8 percent more than in January-September 2002. Purchases of butter increased 12.4 percent - to 78,200 tonnes.