Iran-Russia Trade: Export Statistics, Key Products Market Opportunity

Review of Opportunities and Export Statistics of Iran to Russia in 2024

Russia, with an approximate population of 144 million, is one of the most populous countries in Europe and serves as a key destination for Iranian exports. The country’s climatic conditions limit the cultivation and production of many agricultural products, creating a significant opportunity for Iran to export its agricultural goods.

In recent years, Russia has become one of Iran’s largest trading partners. According to available statistics, in 2023, Iran's exports to Russia surpassed $2 billion, showing a significant increase compared to previous years.

In the first nine months of the Iranian year 1403 (equivalent to 2024), Iran exported over 1.956 million tons of goods worth $802 million to Russia, marking a 14% growth compared to the same period in the previous year. More than 50% of this trade, in terms of weight, and 45.5% in terms of value, was allocated to livestock, agricultural, and food products.

The main exports from Iran to Russia during this period included greenhouse peppers, shrimp, polystyrene, fiber yarn, white cement, pistachios, tangerines, kiwis, tomatoes, fruit juice, peaches, sour cherries, polyethylene, ethylene polymer sheets, raisins, vehicle parts, and lettuce.

Additionally, 42% of Iran’s exports to Russia, amounting to 678,000 tons worth $337 million, originated from the Gilan province.

Given Russia's geographical proximity to Iran, especially through the Caspian Sea, the country has a high capacity for importing products such as dates, pistachios, and other agricultural products from Iran. To succeed in the Russian market, mastering business negotiation principles, export regulations, international marketing, and contract management is essential to achieve the best results for both parties.

List of Export Items to Russia in 2024

Overall, the majority of Iran's exports to Russia consist of agricultural and food products. As one of the coldest countries in the world, Russia lacks the ability to produce some agricultural products in large quantities and must rely on imports to meet its market demands. Due to the relatively short geographical distance between Iran and Russia, the country has become an ideal option for exporting various food products.

Iran’s Export Statistics to Russia in 2024

According to the latest statistics provided in 2024, Iran's export volume to Russia has experienced a significant surge. Official reports indicate that Iran’s exports to Russia exceeded $1.5 billion, reflecting the growing demand for Iranian products in the Russian market. The bulk of these exports included agricultural products, food items, fruits, vegetables, dried fruits, protein products, and processed food industries. Moreover, Iran has successfully strengthened its position in the Russian market and secured a larger market share.

Main Export Items from Iran to Russia

• Fruit Exports to Russia

Fruits are among the most significant export items from Iran to Russia. Each year, considerable quantities of kiwis, apples, cherries, oranges, pomegranates, and dates are exported to Russia. Proper and standard packaging plays a crucial role in the success of these exports, as failure to adhere to packaging standards can lead to a reduction in quality and final pricing.

• Dried Fruit Exports to Russia

Dried fruits are highly demanded in the Russian market. The key exports include dried apples,dried kiwis, dried oranges, dried strawberries, and dried bananas. Enhancing quality and ensuring proper packaging can increase Iran’s market share in Russia.

• Citrus Fruit Exports to Russia

Due to the limitations in citrus production in Russia, the country imports large quantities of these products annually. Iranian citrus exports include oranges, tangerines, lemons, and grapefruits, mainly shipped from northern provinces of Iran.

• Food Exports to Russia

Given the vast Russian food market and its reliance on imports, Iranian food products such as tomatoes, raisins, pistachios, garlic, onions, grapes, and dates are among the most in-demand export items to Russia.

• Vegetable Exports to Russia

Around 10.6% of Russian household food consumption consists of fruits and vegetables. These products include fresh vegetables, celery, dill, parsley, and similar items, all of which are produced in Iran and exported to Russia.

• Potato Exports to Russia

Potatoes are one of Iran’s major export products to Russia. Hamedan province, as Iran’s potato production hub, leads the export of this product with standardized packaging and proper branding.

• Onion Exports to Russia

Onions are a staple product in the Russian market. In 2024, onion exports to Russia increased significantly, with the product being shipped in suitable packaging.

• Garlic Exports to Russia

Iran is a major producer of garlic, and its exports to Russia have surged in 2024. High-quality Iranian garlic with proper packaging has led to increased demand in the Russian market.

• Grape Exports to Russia

Iran is one of the primary suppliers of grapes to Russia. Due to the high quality of Iranian grapes, exports of this product to Russia continue to rise.

• Dried Nut Exports to Russia

Iranian dried nuts, including pistachios, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, and raisins, are highly popular in the Russian market. The demand for dried nuts increased in 2024, and Iranian pistachios remain among the most sought-after export products.

• Saffron Exports to Russia

Saffron is one of Iran’s most important export products, attracting many buyers in the Russian market. In 2024, saffron exports to Russia grew significantly, with reputable brands entering the market.

• Vegetable Exports to Russia

Iran produces a variety of vegetables, including celery and dill, which have a solid market in Russia. These products are exported fresh and well-packaged.

• Tomato Exports to Russia

With the decline in tomato exports from Turkey to Russia, Iranian traders have found a significant opportunity. Tomato exports from Iran to Russia have increased in 2024, meeting the necessary quality standards and securing a strong market presence.

The Role of the Abrisham Road International B2B Platform , Iran’s First B2B Platform, in Exporting to Russia

The Abrisham Road International B2B Platform , as the first B2B platform in Iran, plays a crucial role in developing and facilitating Iranian exports to Russia. This system provides an integrated platform connecting producers, exporters, and foreign buyers, paving the way for international trade for Iranian merchants.

• Facilitating Marketing and Sales Processes

One of the biggest challenges Iranian exporters face is accessing foreign markets and finding reliable buyers. The Abrisham Road International B2B Platform  connects Iranian sellers with Russian traders, enabling direct transactions without intermediaries.

• Reducing Marketing and Communication Costs

International market penetration requires significant expenses for advertising, marketing, and attending foreign exhibitions. This system digitizes trade processes, allowing exporters to showcase their products cost-effectively and connect directly with bulk buyers.

• Enhancing Transparency in Trade Transactions

One of the concerns of exporters is the uncertainty of payments and delivery in international trade. The Abrisham Road International B2B Platform  offers smart payment solutions, standardized contracts, and secure logistics, ensuring transparent and reliable trade transactions.

Conclusion

The review of opportunities and export statistics of Iran to Russia in 2024 indicates that Russia is a crucial destination for Iranian products, particularly in the agricultural and food sectors. The increase in export volume and 14% growth compared to the previous year highlights the expanding trade relations between the two countries. To succeed in the Russian market, adhering to packaging standards, mastering trade negotiations, and utilizing modern tools such as B2B platforms are essential. The Abrisham Road International B2B Platform , as Iran’s first B2B platform, plays a vital role in facilitating exports, reducing marketing costs, and increasing trade transparency. Leveraging these opportunities and modern trade tools can boost Iran’s share in the Russian market and ensure sustainable export growth.