Russia’s Wheat Exports to China Surge Ninefold, Reaching 124,700 Tons in Five Months

Between January and May 2024, Russian wheat exports to China surged by 9.3 times, reaching 124,700 tons – a significant increase compared to the same period last year. This substantial growth was highlighted in a report by the Federal Center for the Development of Export of Agricultural Products of the Russian Federation (Agroexport), which cited statistical data from the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China.

The leading wheat suppliers to China include Australia, France, and Canada, with Russia ranking sixth. Since the start of the year, China’s cumulative wheat imports have surpassed 8 million tons.

The scope and volume of Russian grain product exports to China are on an upward trend, as reported by Rosselkhoznadzor, referencing data from the Federal State Information System ‘Argus-Fito’. Barley shipments have seen a fivefold increase, with 371,500 tons delivered in under six months. Additionally, the exports of oats and buckwheat have doubled, reaching 139,500 and 108,600 tons, respectively. As the 2023–2024 agricultural year draws to a close on June 30, the Ministry of Agriculture anticipates Russia to ascend to the top position globally as a barley supplier.

Rosselkhoznadzor is diligently working on securing access for various Russian agricultural products to the Chinese market. The list includes wheat, barley, semolina, rye flour, wheat bran, beet pulp enriched with molasses, edible soybean meal, mung beans, linseed oil cake, chickpeas, malt, and products derived from amaranth, millet, mustard, lentils, and coriander. Besides that, efforts are being made to authorize nationwide rapeseed exports. Currently, the export of these goods is confined to Siberia and the Far Eastern regions.