Agricultural trade between Russia and the UAE saw a major boost in 2024, increasing by 30%. This growth highlights the strong trade partnership between the two nations, especially in food exports. Russia is now a key supplier of agricultural products to the UAE, helping to improve food security in the Gulf region.
Strong Trade Ties in Agriculture
During the Gulfood 2025 exhibition in Dubai, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev spoke about the increasing trade between the two countries. He emphasized that Russia exports essential food products to the UAE, including wheat, barley, and meat. Many of these products are halal-certified, meeting the UAE’s food standards.
“Our agricultural trade with the UAE is growing fast. We are committed to strengthening this partnership,” Patrushev stated. Russia continues to supply agricultural goods that support food security in the Middle East.
Rapid Growth in Early 2025
The upward trend in agricultural trade continued into 2025. In January alone, trade between Russia and the UAE doubled compared to the same month in 2024. This increase was due to rising demand for Russian food products and improved supply chains.
Experts from Russia’s Agroexport Center estimated that Russia exported over 1.2 million tonnes of agricultural goods to the UAE in 2024. That is a 40% jump from the previous year. The top exports included wheat (71%), barley (17%), peas (4%), lentils (2%), and chickpeas (1%).
Expanding Food Exports
Russia is not only exporting grains but also increasing its meat exports. In 2024, Russia shipped around 10,000 tonnes of poultry meat to the UAE, more than double the previous year. Chicken made up 83% of these meat exports. This rise in meat exports shows Russia’s strategy to expand its agricultural trade and meet the UAE’s diverse food needs.
Agricultural trade: UAE’s Growing Demand for Imported Food
Since the UAE has limited farmland, it relies heavily on food imports. That makes it an important market for Russia’s agricultural trade. The UAE’s advanced infrastructure and location as a Middle Eastern trade hub also make it a key partner for Russian food exporters.
Russian companies are participating in international food exhibitions like Gulfood 2025 to explore new business opportunities. These events allow Russian producers to secure contracts and expand their market reach. Patrushev believes such efforts will “help Russia strengthen its position as a trusted trade partner in the Middle East.”
Agricultural trade: A Win-Win Partnership
The growing agricultural trade benefits both countries. Russia secures a stable market for its food exports, while the UAE improves its food supply through diverse import sources. Both nations are now exploring new opportunities to expand their agricultural trade further. Future plans include exporting more dairy products and beverages.
With increasing collaboration, Russia and the UAE are set to strengthen their agricultural trade in the coming years. This partnership will continue to boost economic growth and food security in the region.
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