EkoNiva Group, Russia’s largest dairy holding, is looking to establish cooperation and expand its operations to Khabarovsk area. At St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Dmitriy Demeshin, Governor of Khabarovsk Area, and Stefan Dürr, President of EkoNiva Group, signed a memorandum of understanding.

The parties will join efforts to promote the social and economic development of the region, with a particular focus on the agricultural sector. Drawing on the relevant experience and expertise, EkoNiva is going to explore the opportunities for dairy farm construction in Khabarovsk area. The potential investment project is expected to increase the region’s herd by at least 6,000 milking cows and generate new jobs for local residents.

‘Today, milk and dairy products in Khabarovsk area come mainly from small agricultural enterprises and private farms. Despite our support, the local supply meets only 10 per cent of the demand. Establishing a large-scale facility in the region will enable us to boost milk production, diversify the product range and create jobs. We deeply appreciate that such a major holding as EkoNiva has taken an interest in Khabarovsk area’, says Governor Dmitriy Demeshin.

‘EkoNiva has been operating in Russia for over 30 years. Today, our farms are present in 13 regions, each with its own agro-climatic conditions. Across all of them, we apply our knowledge and expertise to achieve high production standards. Signing the memorandum of understanding with Khabarovsk area marks a significant milestone in our company’s development. It opens up access to the new market of the Far East and, in the long run, will give us a competitive edge in the Chinese market, where milk consumption is growing rapidly. For the region, this cooperation will help to substantially boost its own raw milk output, providing the residents with natural dairy produced right here in Khabarovsk area’, emphasises EkoNiva Group President Stefan Dürr.