Trade in agricultural goods between Russia and Persian Gulf nations tops $1.6 bln in 2023 - AgMin

MOSCOW. Feb 21 (Interfax) - The volume of mutual trade in food products between Russia and the Persian Gulf countries exceeded $1.6 billion in 2023, the Russian Agriculture Ministry said, citing Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev.

"The volume of bilateral trade in food products with the Persian Gulf countries exceeded $1.6 billion last year, having increased 1.7 times over the past five years. Russia is systematically increasing supplies of grain, vegetable oils, confectionery, meat, dairy and other products. In addition, our halal products, the production of which has been growing in recent years, are becoming increasingly popular in the Middle East," the minister said.

According to him, Russia has long and successfully developed agricultural sector cooperation with the countries of the Middle East and is interested in further expansion of trade. This interest is mutual, he said.

Saudi Arabia remains the key importer of Russian foodstuffs in the Middle East. Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar are actively increasing their purchases. Exports to the UAE are also demonstrating very good trends. Last year this country significantly increased imports of Russian grain, including a 2.7 time increase in wheat purchases to about $180 million. Supplies of high value-added products also grew, with sunflower oil deliveries up 2.2 times to $6.7 million. Exports of meat and dairy products, soft drinks and various finished products have great potential.

As Patrushev noted, Russia will continue to strengthen relations with the UAE and other countries in the region, remaining a reliable supplier of quality food products.

At present, Dubai is hosting the annual Gulfood international exhibition of food, beverages and cooking. This year, about 100 Russian producers of food products in demand abroad are taking part.