Trade News & Analysis

Trade

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.

August 20, 2026

Russia’s VTB Opens QR Code Payments System In Thailand

Russia’s VTB bank has rolled out a QR code payment system throughout Thailand, allowing its Russian clients to make instantaneous payments of up to US$1,3460 a time via selected outlets. With 2 million Russian tourists expected to visit Thailand this year, the system bypasses Western financial sanctions and gives back independence to both Thai retailers and Russian consumers.

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August 19, 2026

Russia, Thailand 2026 Trade and Economic Development: Analysis

The Russia -Thailand Joint Trade Commission has met in Moscow, with Thailand pushing hard for a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union. We deep dive the bilateral relationship, in a complementary trade and services basket that could see their trade increase to US$5 billion by 2030.

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August 18, 2026

Russia Amends Its Foreign Investment Goals, Tightens Buy-Back Options

Russia has tweaked its inbound foreign investment requirements and is looking for FDI that will utilise Russian manufacturing to add value. In addition, the ‘buy-back’ re-entry requirements into Russia for companies that exited the market yet wish to return have been tightened. We also examine the current inbound FDI volumes into Russia and look at the numbers of Western investors remaining operational in the country.

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