Georgia Agriculture Could Feel Impact of Russian Import Ban

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black says Russia’s ban on U.S. food products could mean a significant economic hit for Georgia farmers.

Speaking Thursday in Gainesville, Black said his staff is working to determine just how much of an impact to Georgia Russia’s ban will be.

Black said some of the biggest concerns are poultry products, as well as peanuts and pecans.  Georgia exported about $45-million worth of broilers and broiler products to Russia in 2013, he said.

With poultry off the Russian table, Black said Georgia poultry farmers will have to find other overseas markets for specific cuts of poultry.

However, according to an Associated Press report, some poultry producers say Russia’s decision is not expected to lead to a glut of the poultry products because other countries are clamoring for inexpensive meat.

Additionally, Black believes it likely will not be long before Russians themselves begin complaining about the lack of U.S. food imports now that they’ve become to used to a more diversified offering at their grocery and food stores.