Russia's fruit and vegetable imports from Africa continue to rise, with Morocco among the countries strengthening its presence in the Russian market. According to data from Rosselkhoznadzor, Russia imported around 1.3 million tons of fruits and vegetables through the ports of St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region between 1 January and 8 August 2025, an 8% increase compared to the same period last year.
Bananas led imports with 837,000 tons, followed by pears at 84,000 tons and mandarins at 59,000 tons. Other fruits included apples, lemons, grapes, pineapples, and watermelons. Morocco was listed among the main supplying countries alongside South Africa, Egypt, Argentina, Pakistan, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Chile, Serbia, and Brazil. These suppliers all maintained or expanded their positions in the Russian market during this period.
Vegetable imports totalled 25,500 tons, including potatoes, carrots, cabbage, garlic, and beets. The main suppliers were Belarus, Egypt, Pakistan, and China. All imported produce underwent the required phytosanitary inspections before being approved for sale in local markets.
The increased trade reflects Morocco's steady integration into Russia's fruit and vegetable supply chain. While North African countries already account for around 70% of Russia's agricultural trade with Africa, Morocco's presence stands out for its consistent growth in fresh produce exports.
Russian government figures show that overall trade between Russia and Africa reached about US$27 billion in 2024, with a large share attributed to agricultural goods. Russian authorities aim to deepen these ties through new bilateral agreements that promote trade and investment protection, including one currently being prepared with Morocco.
Both countries have also been developing complementary trade flows. Russia's agricultural exports to Morocco reached about US$280 million in 2024, three times higher than the previous year, led by wheat, sunflower oil, and oilseed meal. At the same time, Moroccan fruit and vegetable exports to Russia continue to expand, supported by strong logistics links through the ports of St. Petersburg and Leningrad.
The growing exchange in agricultural products highlights how Morocco has consolidated its role as one of Russia's leading suppliers of fresh produce, strengthening trade relations between Rabat and Moscow within the broader framework of Africa-Russia cooperation.
Source: ASSAHIFA