Russian food prices soar as cucumber costs reach parity with meat amid war economy
Russia's economy is entering a volatile contraction, with essential goods becoming a luxury for average citizens. Millions confront a mounting financial crisis as defense spending consumes nearly 40% of the national budget, fueling hyperinflation across the Federation.
According to Forbes and Rusprodsoyuz data, the price of cucumbers has surged by 111.1%, reaching 500 rubles per kilogram—approximately €5.10 (100 MDL). This price spike has created a rare parity where vegetables now cost as much as pork (400 rubles) or approach the price of beef (700 rubles).
Official Rosstat data indicates that food prices rose by 3% in the last month alone. This surge is primarily attributed to the Value Added Tax (VAT) hike from 20% to 22%, implemented at the start of 2025.
Systemic erosion of purchasing power
"The total deficit stands at approximately eight trillion rubles," states Dr. Igor Lipsits, Doctor of Economic Sciences. He warns that the government’s reliance on printing money to cover the deficit is injecting excess liquidity into the market, directly eroding the purchasing power of even the most stable salaries.
Lipsits notes that Russia lacks diversified revenue streams, remaining dangerously dependent on oil exports and the direct taxation of its population. Consequently, citizens find themselves becoming "poorer every month" despite nominal wage adjustments.
The looming public sector crisis
While the IT sector sees stagnant wages, the public sector faces the highest risk. As Moscow prioritizes military production—allocating 30% of the 2026 budget to national defense—experts warn of imminent wage arrears for state employees.
The ongoing fiscal strain is expected to disrupt regular salary payments in the public sector shortly, eventually impacting the national pension system. Since early 2024, food prices have climbed by nearly 20%, signaling a protracted period of economic hardship for the Russian population.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
