Russia’s total trade reached about US$745 billion during 2025, also showcasing a significant, albeit shifting, trade surplus of about US$120 billion. In this section we cover all news concerning Russian trade developments, with Russian exporters increasingly reaching out into new markets on a global basis as it pivots away from the West. This is the definitive source on Russian trade. Get the latest data, analysis, and news on Russia’s import/export activities, trade agreements, and increasing commercial partnerships with the Global South.
Russia’s VTB bank has launched its QR code payment service to Indonesia and the Philippines. Both are increasingly popular with Russian tourists, with the system avoiding Western payment mechanisms with direct debit from Russian clients’ ruble bank accounts at the prevailing exchange rate from the relevant local store in rupiah or pesos. There is no commission on the transaction.
The Russian and Kazakh Presidentshave met in Bishkek to discuss bilateral cooperation. Trade volumes have jumped 15% this year to date and if maintained will reach the US$30 billion goal the two Presidents agreed upon in 2024, well ahead of schedule.
The Russian and Tajikistan Presidents have met in Bishkek to discuss bilateral relations and regional security. Trade has been growing at 25% per annum and is at record levels, Tajikistan is also considering nuclear power options as it looks to diversify its energy mix.
The Russian and Uzbekistan Presidents have met in Bishkek. We summarise the latest trade and investment data as bilateral trade grew by 8.4% last year. Uzbekistan recently became a BRICS Partner State.
Armenia is poised to hold a referendum about joining the European Union. In this article we look at its relationship and trade with the Eurasian Economic Union and the practical issues Armenia needs to take before making a choice.
Subscribe to receive exclusive insights and analysis on Trade.
The Russian and Mongolian Presidents have met in Bishkek, with multiple projects underway between the two countries. These include nuclear power, rail connectivity, a free trade agreement, and the building of a new capital city. Mongolia’s unique position between Russia and China is about to pay dividends.
The Russian and Turkish Presidents have met in Bishkek, with central discussions focussing on nuclear energy, tourism and the agricultural sectors. We examine these and look at the threat of secondary sanctions hanging over Ankara despite Turkiye being a member of NATO.
The Russian and Iranian Presidents have met in Bishkek to discuss issues concerning conflicts with the United States, security, rail connectivity, economic development, finance and trade. We examine the issues at hand and what potentially lies ahead in terms of diplomatic meetings to resolve issues.
The Russian President, Vladimir Putin has met with Indian Prime Minister Modi with both delegations holding substantial talks in Bishkek. Apart from the usual diplomacy, discussions included nuclear power, rail and aviation, military cooperation, finance and a free trade agreement. We details what was said and the likely results.
The Russian and Chinese Presidents and their delegations have met in Bishkek. We discuss issues raised about nuclear energy and finance, along with a proposed Trilateral Summit between Presidents Trump, Xi and Putin potentially being held in November.
The Russian Finance Minister, Anton Siluanov, has been attending the G20 annual Finance Ministers meetings in North Carolina, the first time a Russian delegation has been present since 2022. We examine what was discussed, the global economic policy outcomes and Russia’s current status in global economic affairs.
Русский
