Top Indian Agro Commodities in Demand in Russia 2025

Indian Agro Commodities

The year 2025 marks a turning point in Indo-Russian trade, especially in the agricultural sector. As geopolitical shifts reshape global trade alliances, India and Russia are solidifying their economic ties, with agro commodities forming a significant part of this relationship. With Russia facing deficits in several key food categories due to geopolitical isolation and supply chain challenges, Indian agro exports are not just relevant but increasingly vital.

This blog explores the top Indian agro commodities in high demand in the Russian market in 2025, their export dynamics, and what makes India the preferred sourcing partner.

1. Wheat: A Staple Commodity on the Rise

Wheat stands as a strategic crop, and while Russia is one of the world’s top wheat producers, domestic consumption and sanctions have strained supplies. India, although traditionally not a major wheat exporter to Russia, is witnessing growing interest from Russian buyers, particularly for durum and hard red wheat varieties.

Key Drivers:

• High domestic Russian demand

• Sanctions impacting imports from Western countries

• Competitive Indian pricing

Export Insight: Indian wheat exports to Russia are projected to grow beyond $30 million by the end of 2025.

2. Basmati and Non-Basmati Rice

Rice, particularly Basmati and Sona Masoori varieties, has emerged as a preferred staple among Russian consumers due to its aroma, texture, and versatility.

Why Russia Prefers Indian Rice:

• Superior grain quality

• Increased popularity of Indian cuisine in Russia

• Favorable bilateral agreements reducing tariffs

Current Export Volume: Indian rice exports to Russia are valued at $35–45 million, with a 20% YoY growth.

3. Chickpeas and Lentils: Plant-Based Protein Demand Surges

Russia’s plant-based movement is gaining traction, and Indian pulses like chickpeas, lentils, and pigeon peas are catering to this dietary shift. Russia lacks sufficient local production of these legumes, making Indian imports essential.

Popular Varieties:

• Kabul Chickpeas

• Desi Chickpeas

• Red Lentils

Market Fact: Indian chickpea exports to Russia are expected to surpass $20 million in 2025.

4. Sunflower Oil and Seeds: Filling the Edible Oil Gap

While Russia is a leading sunflower producer, refined oil imports from India are gaining ground due to processing technology and competitive pricing.

Product Forms:

• Hulled Sunflower Seeds

• Refined Sunflower Oil

Export Opportunity: India can tap into the $10.2 million sunflower oil market, with a focus on private-label packaging.

5. Fruits: Mangoes, Pomegranates & Grapes Lead the Pack

Indian fresh fruits are increasingly gracing Russian supermarket shelves. With Indian exporters customizing packaging and cold chain logistics, exports of fruits like mangoes, bananas, grapes, and pomegranates are growing rapidly.

Why Indian Fruits Appeal in Russia:

• Extended shelf life through cold chain innovation

• Increasing Russian consumer interest in tropical fruits

FY24 Export Volume: Fresh fruit exports reached $25–35 million.

6. Spices: The Indian Advantage

Indian spices such as turmeric, cumin, black pepper, and coriander are not only culinary essentials but also sought after for their health benefits. As Russian consumers embrace wellness foods, demand for Indian spices is rising.

Top Spices Exported:

• Turmeric

• Cumin

• Black Pepper

• Ginger

• Cardamom

Search Trend: Online searches for "buy Indian turmeric in Russia" and "organic cumin seeds supplier India" have surged 60% in the past year.

7. Onion Powder and Processed Agro Products

India is a global leader in dehydrated onion, garlic, and tomato powders, which have found a niche in Russian processed food manufacturing. These products are used in ready-to-eat meals, sauces, and spice mixes.

Top Indian Exporters:

• Natural Dehydrated Vegetables Pvt. Ltd.

• Jain Farm Fresh Foods Ltd.

Export Value: Approx. $3 million annually to Russia

Why India Is Russia’s Agro Trade Ally

India's strengths in agro production go beyond volume. Its geographical diversity allows year-round harvests, and government-supported export incentives, SEZs, and agri-tech innovations add significant competitive advantages.

Key Strengths:

• Competitive pricing vs global peers

• Robust logistics and port connectivity

• Export-focused government policies

• Trusted quality and certification standards

Moreover, with India-Russia rupee-rouble trade agreements and the upcoming Chennai–Vladivostok maritime corridor, trade is becoming faster and more cost-effective.

The Indo-Russian trade corridor is poised for exponential growth, with agriculture at its core. For Indian exporters, 2025 is not just another year—it's a golden opportunity. From grains and pulses to fruits and spices, the demand in Russia is real, expanding, and ripe for capture.