Russia’s agri exports to Africa surge in 2024, boosting Kremlin’s influence
In 2024, Russia increased its agricultural exports to Africa by 19%, driven by rising demand for Russian wheat, which accounts for 87% of exports to the continent. Egypt, Algeria, and Libya were key importers, with Egypt’s imports growing by 21%. This surge solidifies Russia’s role as a crucial supplier, particularly amid food insecurity worsened by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
Russia significantly boosted its agricultural exports to Africa in 2024 by 19%, reflecting the country’s growing economic influence across the continent amid the continuing war in Ukraine.
During the previous fiscal year, Russia’s agricultural exports to Africa surpassed $7 billion, according to a statement released by the Agricultural Export Center (Agroexport), with Egypt, Algeria, and Libya among the leading importers. The increase is primarily driven by the demand for Russian wheat, which accounted for the bulk of the exports, along with other products like sunflower and soybean oil, flax seeds, and dairy. Egypt remains the largest buyer, increasing its imports by 21%. The country’s heavy reliance on Russian wheat, essential staple food to to feed its population, makes it a key partner in this growing trade relationship. Algeria and Libya also saw significant imports, helping to solidify Russia’s position as a crucial supplier of agricultural products to North Africa.
In total, cereals — mainly wheat, barley, and corn — made up 87% of Russia’s agricultural exports to the continent. The trend of rising demand for Russian grain, especially wheat, reflects Africa’s critical role in Russia’s overall wheat export strategy, which now accounts for more than 50% of the country’s total wheat market. This boost in trade occurs against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has heightened food insecurity in Africa that is now faced with shortages of wheat, maize and soybeans, according to a recent warning by the African Development Bank (AfDB). Russia’s growing agricultural exports offer an alternative supply route, further cementing its ties to the continent amid geopolitical shifts. As demand for Russian wheat continues to grow, Russia is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s agricultural future.
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Source : The North Africa Post
