The bilateral food trade between Russia and Gulf countries reached more than 1.6 billion dollars in 2023, and this level has risen by about 1.7 times over the past five years. These figures were shared by Dmitry Patrushev, the Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, and were reported by TASS. The trend underscores a sustained push by Russia to diversify its export markets and solidify its role as a reliable supplier of essential foodstuffs across the region. It reflects a concerted effort to expand trade beyond traditional partners and to adapt to evolving demand patterns in the Gulf states, where economic diversification drives new opportunities for agricultural and food products in the coming years, particularly in areas with growing consumer markets.
Patrushev emphasized that Russia is methodically increasing deliveries of a broad range of items, including grain, vegetable oils, confectionery, meat, dairy, and other agricultural products. The strategy appears designed to balance volume with diversification, ensuring that the supply chain remains robust against market fluctuations while supporting price stability for buyers in the Gulf. This broadening of export assortments aligns with Russia’s aim to leverage its production capabilities to meet diverse consumer needs in the region and to strengthen long-term trade relationships through consistent quality, reliability, and logistical efficiency.
Saudi Arabia continues to be the leading destination for Russian food exports, but demand is also rising in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. The expansion into these markets signals a more integrated regional approach, where Gulf buyers are seeking a wider array of products and more predictable supply, a dynamic that can help both sides optimize procurement planning and inventory management. This shift also reflects the Gulf’s strategic emphasis on securing stable food supplies amid fluctuating global markets and occasional disruptions in supply chains, with Russia positioned as a key contributor to meeting those needs.
There is notable growth in demand from the United Arab Emirates as well. Last year, UAE imports of Russian grain reached about 180 million dollars, a figure that is roughly 2.7 times higher than in 2022. Similarly, sunflower oil shipments to the UAE rose to about 6.7 million dollars, increasing more than twofold. These numbers illustrate how Gulf economies are expanding their feedstocks and nutrition portfolios, incorporating Russian agricultural products as a dependable component of national food security strategies, logistics networks, and retail availability for consumers across the federation. The UAE’s appetite for diversified agricultural goods complements the broader regional objective of enhancing self-sufficiency while maintaining robust import channels from multiple suppliers.
Patrushev noted that the Middle East has developed a heightened interest in Russian halal products, aligning with religious and cultural dietary preferences that influence purchasing choices in the region. Beyond halal certification, there exists substantial potential in dairy products and soft drinks, sectors that can benefit from extended distribution coverage, improved branding, and ongoing quality assurance programs. This growing interest points to opportunities for product localization, including packaging adaptations and timing of supply to meet seasonal and festival demand, which could further strengthen bilateral ties and support market resilience for both parties.
In parallel, conversations within the region have acknowledged a record level of trade activity with India, highlighting how multiple corridors of commerce are expanding in tandem. While the focus here centers on Gulf-Russia exchanges, the broader trend of rising regional trade reinforces the importance of clear regulatory frameworks, standardized quality controls, and efficient customs procedures to sustain rapid growth across diverse product categories. A sustained emphasis on traceability, food safety, and consistent product specifications will be essential as shipments increase and buyer expectations evolve in the years ahead.
Earlier reports indicated that although exports set new records in 2023, they could not completely offset challenges in domestic grain production. The balance between production, storage, and export dynamics remains a critical consideration for policymakers and industry participants, influencing annual harvest planning, export quotas, and market accessibility. As Russia continues to align its agricultural policy with international demand, the focus remains on maintaining export momentum while ensuring domestic food security and agricultural sustainability for the longer term.”