Lukashenka Demands Agricultural Exports Reach $20 Billion, Threatens Farmers With Deployment to Fortified Areas

Reform.news Editorial Team · 7 November 2026, 18:17

https://reform.news/en/lukashenka-demands-agricultural-exports-reach-20-billion-threatens-farmers-with-deployment-to-fortified-areas/

Aliaksandr Lukashenka has set a target for Belarus’s agricultural sector to increase exports to $20 billion. He made the statement on November 7 during a visit to the Hoviady-Agro agricultural enterprise in the Shklou district of the Mahiliou region. He did not specify a deadline for achieving this target.

“The main thing is the result. We have results, so conceptually and philosophically, we must move up to a new level. Exports should not be $10 billion but $20 billion — that is what we must aim for,” Lukashenka said.

He noted that global demand for food continues to grow and that Belarus should take advantage of this situation to increase exports.

“Because prices are rising, food prices are rising, and people are going hungry. Well, it is a tragedy, but an opportunity for us. That is the whole philosophy behind why I pay so much attention to agriculture,” Lukashenka said.

According to him, agriculture requires substantial expenditure, including on the transportation of animal feed, products and fertilisers. At the same time, the rural population is declining as people move to cities.

“That is why the construction of agro-towns was proposed. Why do I insist on having agro-towns? They are essential for future development. Working people want to live in places where there is internet access, where everyone has a bank card, and so on. Everything should be there: shops, heating and normal living conditions. That is what agro-towns are for. But our social infrastructure has taken priority. We rushed into building these towns, and at present it is outpacing production. What should we do? That is why I say we need specialists who will demand effective work from their subordinates. Not because I am dictating things as a dictator. Technology itself forces us to work. If the technology is properly followed, there will be profitability. That is the whole philosophy of agriculture,” he said.

He demanded that farm managers ensure effective employee performance and compliance with technological requirements.

During the visit to Hoviady-Agro, the financial situation of the enterprise was also discussed, as its expenses currently exceed its revenue. A recovery plan has been developed, and Lukashenka said its implementation requires strict production and technological discipline.

He warned the enterprise’s management that farmers could be sent to build fortified areas if disciplinary problems arose.

“I have six fortified areas that need to be dug out and excavated in winter, with pickaxes. Whether it is freezing or not, it will have to be done. There will be nowhere to run. Everything will be under the supervision of officers. You will be sent there,” Lukashenka threatened.

He stressed that the order established ahead of his visit must be maintained every day.

“This is my strictest requirement. As Krutoi says, heads will roll immediately if it is not met,” Lukashenka threatened.

He also said agricultural enterprises could be privatised if owners willing to take responsibility for their development came forward.

“If they do not want to work, fine. If some owner comes along and says, ‘You know, I will take these lands and this entire complex,’ then let us negotiate. We are already offering such options to many people in the Vitsebsk region and probably in the Mahiliou region as well. Pay for the livestock and tractors — just a nominal amount — and go to work. So we will privatise them. That is another option,” he said.