Russian agricultural exports to the Middle East hit $4.3 billion in 2025, according to Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut. Speaking at the opening of the Russian pavilion at the Gulfood-2026 International Food Exhibition, Lut highlighted a significant shift toward consumer-ready goods in the region's trade portfolio.
"Our relations with Middle Eastern countries are developing steadily," Lut told attendees. "In 2025, export supplies from Russia totaled $4.3 billion, and we are seeing a marked increase in the delivery of consumer products. We are well aware of the high-quality standards and requirements in the Middle East, and our producers consistently strive to meet them. I am confident that Russian products are among the highest quality in the world."
The minister noted a major change in the makeup of Russian participants at the exhibition. Out of the 140 companies representing Russia this year, approximately 100 are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This marks a transition from previous years, where the delegation was dominated almost exclusively by large grain and oilseed conglomerates.
Halal production remains a strategic priority for the ministry. Lut revealed that in 2025, Russia gained export clearance for Halal products in four additional countries. "Given that Russia is a multi-confessional country, our domestic Halal production is growing for our own consumption, and naturally, these products are performing well globally due to our expanded capabilities," she added.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: vecstock/Freepik
Based on materials from TASS