Ethiopia Joins Major African Wheat Importers Amidst Surge in Russian Shipments

Ethiopia Joins Major African Wheat Importers Amidst Surge in Russian Shipments

March 13, 2025 (#EBR_News)

Russia has markedly increased its agricultural exports to Africa, with shipments rising by 19% year-over-year, surpassing USD 7 billion in 2024, as reported by the Agroexport Center. This increase underscores Africa's growing dependence on Russian grain and food products, thereby strengthening trade relations between the two regions.

Egypt continues to be the leading importer, with a 21% rise in its purchases, while Algeria, Kenya, Tunisia, and Libya also feature prominently among the top importers. Notably, Kenya experienced a significant 33% increase in imports of Russian food, highlighting the evolving trade dynamics within Africa's food supply chain.

The primary exports from Russia to Africa consist of wheat, barley, and corn, which together represent 87% of total shipments. Additionally, the continent serves as a vital market for Russian vegetable oils, meat, fish, and dairy products, with dairy exports witnessing remarkable growth in 2024.

Ethiopia, along with Nigeria, Tanzania, and Mozambique, is among the countries increasing its wheat imports from Russia. From July 2024 to February 2025, African nations collectively imported 18 million tonnes of Russian wheat, elevating the continent's share of Russia's total wheat exports to over 50%.

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