Belarus

Belarus covers about 207,600 km² in Eastern Europe and is characterised by flat lowlands, extensive wetlands and forested areas. Much of the country lies within the basin of major rivers such as the Dnieper River, which support agriculture. Belarus has a temperate continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, creating favourable conditions for farming.

Historically, agriculture has played a central role in Belarusian livelihoods. During the Soviet period, farming was organised into large collective and state farms. After independence in 1991, this structure remained largely intact, with agriculture continuing to be a key sector.

Today, the primary sector contributes around 6–7% of GDP and remains important for employment. Approximately 45% of the land is used for agriculture. Belarus produces crops such as wheat, barley, potatoes and sugar beet. Potatoes are especially significant and form a staple of the national diet. Livestock farming is also important, particularly dairy and beef cattle as well as pigs and poultry.

Forests cover roughly 40% of Belarus’s territory, making forestry a significant economic activity.

Belarus has no marine fisheries, but inland fishing occurs in rivers and lakes.

Overall, Belarus’s primary sector reflects its flat terrain and fertile soils: mixed crop farming, livestock production and extensive forest resources. Despite industrial development, agriculture and forestry remain important for food supply and rural livelihoods.

It was not easy in 2008 to get a visa for Belarus, the last Stalinist country in the world. After 3 applications 3 days visa was issued. Unfortunately Gerold and Klaudia could take only one day. With an acquaintance on a privately led enterprise near M1 # P11 driven, there about the planned economy discussed. Very nice. Racing road to Moscow is perfect, practically no cars. Then via Minsk to Vilnius (Lithuania). Shortly before midnight across the border, visas had no longer duration. The road was more of an adventure. We had only relied on the navigation system, which just had the maps from Eastern Europe in it. But in the dark it was better than all maps. We would not have been able to read the place names anyway.