On 22 August 2013, a meeting on social-economic development of Rostov Region took place, attended by President Putin. He advised the Head of Eurodon Group of Companies, Vadim Vaneev, to think of turkey meat export possibilities, meaning exporting product to foreign markets.

The President commented on the success of the agricultural cluster of Rostov Region. Eurodon Group of Companies was taken as an example.

He said: "Creating new technologies, using modern materials and equipment and implementing innovations in food production are essential – you can see it on the successful example of some producers as Vadim Shalvovich (Vaneev). I can remember his achievements in poultry business. Now they are starting a new project on duck breeding. And the complex for it is based on newest technologies."

Mr Vaneev explained that value of investments in the poultry sector (turkey and duck) has exceeded 13 billion rubles.

He added that more than 5,000 jobs have already been created in the sector. "In two years, we will have 10,000 people employed," he said.

According to Mr Putin, projects like this contribute to the growth of export potential of the region.

Mr Vaneev stressed the importance of promoting Russian turkey on foreign markets. Next year, he said, his company is planning to implement two projects which will allow Eurodon to become the biggest turkey producing company on the European market.

"In our plans we do not take Europe in account. We are thinking of Far East, Arabian countries and China," he added.

Mr Vaneev took the chance to mention some of the difficulties every meat producer may face on the agricultural market.

"Nowadays, we face a lot of challenges because of the low quality of soya and soybean meal. The production of it is not developed enough in our country and it impacts quality.

"Two years ago, we used to buy soybean meal for 600 rubles. Now it is around 850 to 900 rubles. We are not the producers of this product, we are the consumers. This agricultural area needs strong support," he said.

Finally, Mr Vaneev asked President Putin to consider the possibility of subsidising turkey breeding projects for a 10-year loan. Now, according to the established procedure approved by the Russian government, that period is for eight years.

"The question of subsidies should be discussed with the Ministry of finance. But we can definitely work on it," the President replied.