Key Points
- Russia's foreign trade volume grew 13.9% in the first nine months of 2026, driven by a 13.7% increase in exports to $346.5 billion and a 14.1% rise in imports to $229.7 billion.
- The positive trade balance reached $116.8 billion, up from $103.2 billion in the same period last year.
- Asia accounted for 72.1% of Russia's foreign trade, with exports to the region growing 17.7% to $277.5 billion and imports rising 17.6% to $158.1 billion.
Russia's Trade Shifts Eastward
Russia's foreign trade volume grew 13.9% in the first nine months of 2026, driven by a 13.7% increase in exports to $346.5 billion and a 14.1% rise in imports to $229.7 billion, according to the Federal Customs Service of Russia.
The positive trade balance reached $116.8 billion, up from $103.2 billion in the same period last year.
Asia accounted for 72.1% of Russia's foreign trade, with exports to the region growing 17.7% to $277.5 billion and imports rising 17.6% to $158.1 billion.
At a Glance
| Total Foreign Trade Volume | $576.2 billion Growth rate compared to the same period in 2025 |
| Export Growth Rate | 13.7% Compared to the same period in 2025 |
| Import Growth Rate | 14.1% Compared to the same period in 2025 |
| Positive Trade Balance | $116.8 billion Compared to $103.2 billion in the same period last year |
| Asia's Share of Russia's Foreign Trade | 72.1% Compared to other regions |
Behind the Numbers
Behind the Numbers
The growth in Russia's foreign trade is largely driven by the country's increasing exports to Asia, particularly to China. The trade balance with China grew 30.6% year-over-year, reaching $214.3 billion.
Russia's exports to China are primarily driven by mineral products, such as oil and agricultural products, while China's imports from Russia are mainly electronics and high-tech products.
On the other hand, trade with Europe and Africa has been slower, with the trade balance with Europe growing only 5.9% to $100.7 billion and trade with Africa stagnating at 0.7% growth to $19.4 billion.
What It Means for Businesses
What It Means for Businesses
The growth in Russia's foreign trade has significant implications for businesses operating in the country.
Companies involved in the export of mineral products, metals, and agricultural products are likely to benefit from the growing demand in Asia.
On the other hand, businesses involved in the import of electronics and high-tech products may face increased competition from Chinese suppliers.
Risk & Opportunity Assessment
| Commercial Risk | Low | The growth in Russia's foreign trade is driven by increasing exports to Asia, which is likely to continue in the near future. |
| Competitive Risk | Medium | The growing demand for mineral products, metals, and agricultural products in Asia may lead to increased competition among suppliers. |
| Regulatory Risk | Low | The Russian government has implemented policies to support the growth of the country's foreign trade, which is likely to continue in the near future. |
| Reputation Risk | Low | The growth in Russia's foreign trade is driven by increasing exports to Asia, which is likely to continue in the near future. |
| Technology Disruption | Low | The growth in Russia's foreign trade is driven by increasing exports to Asia, which is likely to continue in the near future. |
| Commercial Opportunity | High | The growth in Russia's foreign trade presents significant opportunities for businesses operating in the country, particularly those involved in the export of mineral products, metals, and agricultural products. |
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