MOSCOW -- Russia is expected to export 55-60 million tons of grain this agricultural season, a drop from 72 million tons last season, Russia's TASS news agency reported Monday.

"The total grain harvest will reach 130 million tons, including 83 million tons of wheat. This volume will enable Russia to export 55-60 million tons of grain this season (July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025)," Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev said in an interview.

Patrushev added that Russian farmers face difficult weather conditions this year, including spring frost damage in several regions, summer droughts, and heavy rains during the harvest season.

"Thanks to the advanced technological capabilities of our agricultural sector, we anticipate achieving a decent harvest. This will fully meet domestic market demands and sustain our high export potential for both raw materials and processed products," Patrushev added.