Russia boosts exports to Egypt 15.6% to $5.9 bln in 7M 2026, counts on growth in trade with creation of FTA - Industry and Trade Ministry

MOSCOW. Sept 23 (Interfax) - Russia's exports to Egypt amounted to $5.9 billion rubles in January-July 2026, up 15.6% year-on-year, Deputy Industry and Trade Minister Roman Chekushov said following a visit to the country and to the area of the future Russian industrial zone (RIZ) in the Suez Canal Economic Zone.

According to the ministry's press service, Chekushov held talks with Egyptian Industry Minister Khaled Hashem, Investment and Foreign Trade Minister Mohamed Farid, Deputy Foreign Minister Wael Hamed and the chairman of the Federation of Egyptian Industries, Mohamed El-Sewedy.

Chekushov and Farid, in particular, discussed simplifying procedures in mutual trade, including the possibilities of using electronic document flow in cross-border operations and developing new logistics routes, the press service said. The topic of a free trade agreement between Russia and Egypt was touched upon during the meeting.

Chekushov expressed confidence that the conclusion of a free trade agreement will lead to an even greater intensification not only of Russian exports, but also of Egyptian exports to Russia.

Negotiations on a free trade zone (FTA) between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Egypt began back in 2019. Several rounds of negotiations were held, but then the process stalled. The Russian side has repeatedly said that it is interested in resuming discussion of this topic.