The Russian Ministry of Agriculture to Create a Database of 1.5 Million Animal Genomes and Launch FGIS for Breeding by 2026

Olga Abramova identified three systemic problems:

• lack of reliable genetic data,

• dependence on foreign technologies,

• shortage of personnel in the breeding sector.

Currently, Russia studies only 150–200 thousand heads per year, which significantly limits the accuracy of breeding work. Creating a database of 1.5 million genomes will allow for a deeper and more cost-effective analysis of productivity and inheritable traits.

The Federal State Information System (FGIS) will become a key element of the new approach and will start operating on March 1, 2026. Breeding farms will enter data about animals into it, including genotypes, phenotypes, reproduction, and productivity.

The system is expected to become the foundation for decision-making in breeding and to reduce the technological dependence of farmers.

The advisor also announced the development of a national breeding value index adapted to Russian conditions—climate, feeding, and farm management features. It will be presented at the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026.

A separate emphasis was placed on the importance of local breeds: 'In addition to the Holstein breed, we need local breeds to maintain biological diversity,' emphasized Olga Abramova. Support for genetic fund breeds will become part of a long-term sustainable development program.