Hay Prices Soar, Belarusian Farmers Struggle

Rising Hay Prices Squeeze Belarusian Farmers June 13, 2025 - A Belarusian farmer has voiced concerns about the sharp increase in hay prices, highlighting the economic difficulties faced by small-scale agricultural producers in the country. The farmer, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared a video detailing his struggles. "The price of hay has gone up dramatically," he stated. "It used to be 50 rubles per bale, now it's 45 rubles. It's simply unaffordable." His concerns reflect a broader trend of rising agricultural input costs impacting farmers across the region. The farmer's video also points to a significant wage gap between farmers and agricultural laborers. He noted that tractor drivers can earn 1000-1250 rubles in just three hours of work. This disparity underscores the economic challenges faced by farmers who lack access to modern equipment and must rely on manual labor or expensive hired help. While the farmer's situation represents a specific case, it reflects a larger issue of economic sustainability in the Belarusian agricultural sector. Further investigation into the factors driving up hay prices and the potential for government support is needed to ensure the continued viability of small-scale farms.