Russian Trade: 13 Million Tonnes of Grain Shipped to Africa in 2026

Russia supplied 13 million metric tonnes of agricultural products to African nations during the first nine months of 2026. President Vladimir Putin cited this figure on Wednesday while addressing the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.

The summit brought together delegations from 48 African countries. Twenty-two of these nations were represented by their heads of state. Putin used the gathering to define Russia's economic role on the continent in contrast to Western powers.

Putin stated that Russian business does not engage in neo-colonial exploitation of natural or human resources. Instead, he said, Moscow expands the local processing of raw materials. He argued that this approach creates new jobs and generates tax revenue for host nations.

The Russian leader criticized Western countries for attempting to push African nations back into debt. He described these financial terms as predatory, claiming they slow long-term development. Putin noted that the West continues to exploit the continent's resources while using debt as a tool to hold back growth.

The meeting took place against a backdrop of regional instability. Russian-backed government forces in North Africa are currently fighting armed rebellions. Many countries in the region have emerged from military coups, which have shaken regional security. Putin acknowledged that the shift toward a multipolar world faces resistance from nations unwilling to accept that reality.

Logistical challenges also shape the current trade environment. Attacks in the Black Sea continue to disrupt grain exports from both Russia and Ukraine. Additionally, the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran has interrupted global fertilizer supplies. Putin told the delegations that Russia is prepared to expand the geographic reach of its agricultural shipments.

Putin is scheduled to hold one-on-one talks with individual African leaders attending the summit. These discussions will cover topics including trade, security, grain supplies, and arms deals. The event is expected to conclude with a final declaration on deepening cooperation between Russia and African nations.