African Countries Russia Makes The Most Money From

Russia’s trade with African countries has reached a new high, with exports surging to $21.2 billion in 2024. This marks a 43% increase from 2023. Food shipments alone grew by 19% to over $7 billion. As European influence declines in Africa, Russia continues to strengthen its economic and political ties with the continent.

A significant portion of Russia’s exports to African countries includes machinery, grain, and hydrocarbon fuels. Africa now accounts for half of Russia’s wheat exports, as demand for affordable food supplies increases. Russia’s growing trade relations also extend to military agreements, particularly in the Sahel region.

With its exports expected to rise further, Prime Business Africa presents the top 10 African countries where Russia makes the most money.

Top 10 African Countries Russia Makes the Most Money From

READ ALSO: 10 African Countries With The Most Economic Opportunities For Women

1. Egypt – 4.18% of Russian Exports

Egypt is Russia’s largest trade partner in Africa, accounting for 4.18% of its exports. The country heavily relies on Russian wheat, making it a crucial market for Moscow’s agricultural products. Russian exports to Egypt also include hydrocarbon fuels, machinery, and fertilisers.

2. Algeria – 2.99% of Russian Exports

Algeria is another key African country where Russia makes substantial revenue. The country imports Russian grains, machinery, and military equipment. The defence sector plays a significant role in trade relations, with Algeria purchasing Russian weapons and aircraft.

3. Senegal – 1.22% of Russian Exports

Senegal is a growing market for Russian food products, especially wheat. The country also imports fertilisers and oil-related products from Russia. The increasing demand for food security in Senegal has strengthened trade relations with Moscow.

4. Morocco – 1.21% of Russian Exports

Morocco imports a variety of Russian goods, including cereals, petroleum products, and fertilisers. The country benefits from Russia’s competitive pricing, particularly in the agricultural and energy sectors.

5. Nigeria – 0.88% of Russian Exports

Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy, and its trade with Russia continues to grow. Russian wheat, machinery, and energy products are in high demand. As Nigeria’s population increases, so does its need for affordable food supplies, making Russia a key trade partner.

6. Uganda – 0.41% of Russian Exports

Uganda imports Russian wheat, machinery, and fertilisers. The country’s agricultural sector depends on Russian supplies, and trade between the two nations is expected to expand further.

7. South Africa – 0.34% of Russian Exports

South Africa, one of Africa’s largest economies, imports Russian oil, fertilisers, and metals. The mining industry, in particular, benefits from Russian equipment and energy resources.

8. Tunisia – 0.33% of Russian Exports

Tunisia is another African country where Russia makes money, primarily through wheat and petroleum product exports. The country relies on Russian agricultural products to meet its growing food demand.

9. Libya – 0.33% of Russian Exports

Libya, despite its ongoing political instability, remains a key market for Russian exports. The country imports wheat, fuel, and construction materials from Russia, helping to sustain trade relations.

10. Cameroon – 0.31% of Russian Exports

READ ALSO: How 10 Africa’s Most Populous Countries Generate Power

Cameroon completes the list of African countries where Russia makes the most money. The nation imports Russian grains, fertilisers, and petroleum products, strengthening trade ties between the two countries.

Why Russia’s Trade With African Countries Is Growing

Several factors contribute to Russia’s increasing trade with African countries:

• Competitive Pricing: Russian agricultural and energy products are more affordable than those from Western suppliers.
• Food Security Needs: Many African nations depend on Russia for wheat and fertilisers.
• Declining Western Influence: As European countries lose trade influence, Russia fills the gap.
• Military Cooperation: Russia expands its presence in Africa through defence agreements, increasing its economic influence.

Russia’s Future in African Trade

With exports expected to rise, Russia’s economic ties with African countries will continue to strengthen. The trade relationship benefits both sides, as African countries secure essential goods at lower prices, while Russia expands its global influence.

As Moscow deepens its presence in Africa, the continent’s reliance on Russian exports is likely to grow. The coming years will reveal how this partnership shapes Africa’s economic environment.