Emmanuel OchayiRussian agricultural exports to Africa have seen a significant rise in 2024, with total exports expected to exceed $7 billion. This marks a 19% increase from 2023, reflecting Africa’s growing dependence on Russian food supplies.
Wheat, barley, and corn make up nearly 87% of Russia’s food exports to the continent. African countries also import meat, fish, dairy products, and vegetable oils from Russia. With increasing trade partnerships and competitive pricing, Russian food markets in Africa continue to expand.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelPrime Business Africa presents the top five African countries that import the largest amounts of Russian food and how their import values have changed in 2024.
Top Russian Food Markets in Africa
1. Kenya – 33% Increase
Kenya recorded the highest increase in Russian food imports, rising by 33% in 2024. The country relies heavily on Russian wheat and other grain products to meet domestic demand. The affordability of Russian agricultural goods has contributed to Kenya’s increased imports.
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2. Tunisia – 28% Increase
Tunisia’s import value of Russian food products rose by 28%. The North African nation imports wheat, vegetable oils, and dairy products. Russia’s growing trade relations with Tunisia have ensured a steady supply of essential food items.
3. Egypt – 21% Increase
Egypt remains one of the largest importers of Russian food. The country’s import value increased by 21% in 2024. Egypt imports large amounts of Russian wheat, sunflower oil, soybean oil, legumes, and flax seeds. The country’s demand for wheat has made it a key market for Russian exporters.
4. Algeria – 1.5% Increase
Algeria’s import of Russian food increased slightly by 1.5%. The country primarily imports grain, oilseeds, and dairy products. Despite its modest growth, Algeria remains an important market for Russian agricultural exports.
5. Libya – 18% Decline
Unlike other top markets, Libya’s imports of Russian food declined by 18%. Economic challenges and changing trade dynamics may have contributed to the decrease. However, Libya still relies on Russian wheat and other agricultural products.
Why Africa Relies on Russian Food Imports
Africa accounts for nearly half of Russia’s wheat exports. Several factors contribute to this trend:
- Growing Population: The increasing demand for food requires a stable supply of affordable grain and other agricultural products.
- Competitive Pricing: Russian food products are priced lower than many alternatives, making them attractive to African importers.
- Trade Agreements: Russia has strengthened trade partnerships with African nations to secure its position in the continent’s food market.
Russia’s Expanding Influence in African Food Markets
Russia’s role in Africa’s food market is expected to grow further. The country continues to invest in trade relationships and supply chain infrastructure to ensure consistent exports. As food demand in Africa rises, Russian food markets in Africa will likely see more expansion in the coming years.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
