Russia boosts agricultural exports to Africa 1.4-fold to 11 mln tonnes in H1 - Agroexport

MOSCOW. July 24 (Interfax) - Russia exported over 11 million tonnes of agricultural produce to Africa in the first half of 2026, up 1.4-fold year-on-year, while the revenue from these exports increased 35% to $2.9 billion, the Agroexport federal center reported, citing expert estimates.

Wheat exports made up the largest share of 10.2 million tonnes. Barley exports totaled around 234,000 tonnes, soybean oil over 158,000 tonnes, sunflower cake and meal over 95,000 tonnes, and beet pulp with added molasses over 64,000 tonnes.

"Russian agricultural products are exported primarily to Egypt. Approximately 3.8 million tonnes were shipped in the first six months of 2025, and this increased to 4.9 million tonnes in the same period of 2026. Egypt accounted for 44% of overall exports to African countries in weight terms," the statement reads.

Sudan was the second biggest importer with an 11% share. Agricultural exports to this country grew 1.6-fold year-on-year in weight terms. Kenya ranked third with a 10% share and a 9.5-fold increase. Algeria and Libya were also in the top five.

In total, Russia has exported agricultural produce to over 40 of the 54 countries in Africa this year.