Russia's agricultural exports to Africa have witnessed a significant surge, rising by 19% to over $7 billion in 2024, according to a statement released by the state center Agroexport. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for affordable food supplies and competitive pricing of Russian agricultural commodities in the African market.

The top 5 largest Russian food markets in Africa, as reported by Interfax Information Services Group, are Kenya, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, and Libya. Kenya tops the list, with a 33% increase in imports, followed by Tunisia with a 28% increase, Egypt with a 21% increase, Algeria with a 1.5% increase, and Libya with an 18% decrease.

Grain crops, including wheat, barley, and corn, make up the majority of Russia's agricultural exports to Africa, accounting for nearly 87% of the total supply in terms of value. Additionally, African nations are significant consumers of meat, fish, and items containing fat and oil, with dairy product shipments increasing substantially in 2024.

Egypt, in particular, is a leading importer of Russian wheat, sunflower and soybean oil, legumes, flax seeds, molasses, yeast, and other products. The North African country's reliance on Russian wheat has increased due to its growing population, demand for inexpensive food supplies, and the competitive price of Russian agricultural commodities.

Russia's aggressive strengthening of trade partnerships with African countries has ensured a consistent supply of key food items, despite global geopolitical concerns. This strategic focus on Africa has resulted in the continent accounting for half of the Russian wheat market, demonstrating its importance in Moscow's agricultural export policy.

The growth of Russia's agricultural exports to Africa is expected to continue, driven by the continent's growing population, increasing demand for affordable food supplies, and competitive pricing. As Moscow prioritizes Africa in its global trade strategy, it is likely that Russia's agricultural exports to the continent will continue to increase in the coming years.

This trend is significant, as it highlights the importance of Africa in Russia's agricultural export policy and underscores the continent's strategic importance in the global agricultural market. As the demand for affordable food supplies continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how Russia's agricultural exports to Africa evolve in the coming years.