The value of fish and seafood trade between Russia and the Middle East rose by 22% in 2025, reaching $107 million, according to a report by the Fish Union. Despite the significant increase in monetary terms, the physical volume of trade remained stable compared to 2024, totaling 24,000 tons.
The Analytical Center of the Fish Union, basing its findings on foreign customs data, noted diverging trends across specific regional markets. For instance, Russian exports to the United Arab Emirates dropped by 25% in volume but saw a 35% increase in value, totaling 300 tons worth $8 million. Conversely, exports to Israel grew by 10% in physical weight but plummeted 35% in value, amounting to 75 tons at $0.5 million.
Imports into Russia from the region also showed varied results. Supplies from Iran, a major partner, decreased by 20% in volume and 15% in value, falling to 16,000 tons worth $53 million.
Purchases from Saudi Arabia surged by 75% in volume and doubled in value to reach 7,000 tons worth $31 million. Egypt also saw its exports to Russia rise by 25% in weight and double in value, totaling 500 tons at $4 million. The most explosive growth came from the UAE, with imports increasing fourfold in volume and fivefold in value, reaching 300 tons worth $10 million.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: ASphotofamily\Freepik
Based on materials from TASS