Putin was holding a conference on the government's agricultural policies in Yessentuki, south Russia.
"Amid rapidly growing prices on global food markets, the Economic Development and the Industry and Trade ministries should make an inventory of all foreign trade contracts in agriculture, and jointly with the Agriculture Ministry, submit proposals on improving foreign economic activity in the sphere, taking into account the exclusive interests of national producers and consumers," Putin said.
The Russian premier also demanded that the updating of regulations for the production and sale of food products be sped up.
The Russian agriculture industry needs a technical and technological overhaul, for which leasing and insurance programs should be developed, Putin said, calling for the introduction of stable prices for fuel and lubricants as well as fertilizers, and long-term loan programs.
Putin also said it would be necessary to increase meat and milk output in Russia, and raise grain production to one ton per person.
"Russia should become a major player on the global food market and guard itself against dramatic fluctuations in food prices," Putin said.
