俄罗斯土豆价格涨三倍，贫困人口通胀率超20%

Core Viewpoint - The surge in potato prices in Russia, which have tripled since last year, is exacerbating inflation and worsening the living conditions of the impoverished population [1][3][4] Group 1: Inflation and Economic Impact - In Russia, food accounts for approximately 40% of the inflation basket, significantly higher than the 14% in developed economies like the US [1] - The Central Bank of Russia lowered the benchmark interest rate to 20% on June 6, 2023, which is still near the highest level since 2003 [2] - Despite a slowdown in actual inflation, public inflation expectations remain high, contributing to ongoing price pressures [2] Group 2: Price Increases and Consumer Behavior - The price of potatoes has risen to 120 rubles (approximately $1.53) per kilogram for new season potatoes, compared to just 43 rubles last year [4] - In April, nearly 35% of Russian households' income was spent on food, the highest level in five years, up from 29% the previous year [4] - The rising prices of basic food items like onions, cabbage, and carrots are also contributing to the overall food inflation crisis [4] Group 3: Government Response and Agricultural Challenges - The Russian government is increasing imports, with potato supplies from Egypt tripling, while Belarus has reported depleted stocks [4] - Farmers attribute last year's potato yield drop to adverse weather conditions and rising costs for machinery, fuel, fertilizers, and labor [5] - The Agriculture Minister predicts that prices will stabilize starting in July 2023, following a better harvest [6] Group 4: Socioeconomic Disparities - The inflation rate for the impoverished population, based on essential goods, exceeds 20%, which is 10 percentage points higher than the official inflation rate [6] - Over a quarter of the population are pensioners, with an average pension of 23,448 rubles (approximately $298), which has seen minimal real growth since 2025 [7] - Low-income groups, particularly pensioners and public sector workers, are disproportionately affected by inflation [7]