Meeting with Government members

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, colleagues,

Today, I would like us to discuss the development of our fisheries industry. The Government is addressing this systematically, but it is a complex issue that goes beyond simply ensuring a supply of products to consumers at affordable prices. While I will talk more about that aspect, the issue also encompasses areas like shipbuilding and investment tools such as the "keel quota" programme. This is precisely what makes it so multifaceted. In your reports today, I would like you to elaborate on how all the different tools we are using to advance this industry are working, and what further steps are needed to eliminate any bottlenecks in the development of our fishing sector.

Specifically, I would like you to address the construction of fishing vessels. As I mentioned, the "keel quota" programme is a key mechanism here. Launched in 2017 to support the industry, it allows for the exchange of fishing quotas for investments in the fishing fleet and processing infrastructure, thereby supporting investment in cutting-edge vessels, including new-generation trawlers capable of processing the catch directly on board using waste-free technology. Today, we will discuss the current results of this approach and explore how we can improve the efficiency of these quotas.

I would like to reiterate that Russia is endowed with unique reserves of biological resources. It is crucial, therefore, that we not only harvest them but also ensure their efficient processing and transportation. Moreover, we must prioritise the interests of the domestic market. Our goal is to ensure that Russia's catch and processed products seamlessly reach store shelves across the country so that residents in every region can purchase these high-quality goods at, as I have said, affordable prices.

At present, the level of fish and seafood in the Russian diet falls below the standard recommended by our Healthcare Ministry. I would like to point out that in countries with high levels of fish consumption, we also see a corresponding increase in life expectancy. Here in Russia, annual consumption stands at around 24 kilogrammes per person, but it should be higher. This is a key point I want to highlight for all our colleagues involved in this work, at every level.

This is a truly important systemic issue, as a balanced diet is critical for public health and, as I have mentioned, for life expectancy. With that in mind, I will also ask you to present specific proposals in this area today.

But before we begin our main discussion, I would like to invite Mr Andrei Nikitin to provide an update on the development of inland waterways. This issue is closely related to the key topic we will be discussing.

To be continued.