The discussion primarily focused on the financial and operational performance of the enterprise. Prior to the president’s visit, the State Control Committee of Belarus identified certain issues related to feed storage. Aleksandr Lukashenko drew special attention to this matter in his conversation with enterprise’s Director General Yekaterina Zarovskaya.
Overall, the enterprise is doing well. Profits are being reinvested into production development and upgrades. The average profitability of the enterprise stands at 6.6%; in processing – at around 12%. The enterprise is also showing positive results in crop cultivation, which was discussed in detail with the president.
For example, the yield of a winter barley field inspected by the president exceeds 60 centners per hectare. In recent years, the head of state has paid special attention to this crop, largely because winter barley is harvested earlier than other grain crops. This allows for the timely production of livestock feed and a more even distribution of machinery before the peak harvest season. Although the crop is considered demanding, it can deliver great results with proper technology. The experience of Agrokombinat Zarya confirms this approach. “[We achieve] very good results. We are also able to adapt to any weather conditions,” the head of the enterprise remarked.
The enterprise also operates two large dairy complexes, runs poultry and pig farming businesses and a retail network. “We have our own meat processing plant. We process 100% of what we produce, and all of it is sold through our branded retail network in Mogilev and Mogilev Oblast,” Yekaterina Zarovskaya said.
The president was assured that the farm has not faced cattle loss, which is an issue in some agricultural enterprises across the country. All processes are carried out in accordance with proper technology.
Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized that farms like this (those that operate efficiently and have no debts to the state or banks) should receive additional support to implement various projects.
“This is a good enterprise. Hopefully, it stays this way. Keep up the good work. You are doing well compared to others,” Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed.
“A farm manager is the best job,” the president added.
Yekaterina Zarovskaya fully agreed with this statement: “I can’t stay in the office. I love fields, people, I need to be around grain harvesters. I try to see everything with my own eyes. In agriculture, you have to live the work, not just go through the motions. If you do, you won’t get results. You have to put your heart and soul into agriculture: it is a way of life.”
