In 2024, Russia’s wheat export landscape is undergoing significant changes that could see wheat make up over 80% of the country’s grain exports. According to Maxim Titov, Russia’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, the proportion of wheat in the total grain export could exceed its typical share, which traditionally hovers around 80%. This shift is largely due to new export quotas that will be in effect from February 15 to June 30, 2024, which will limit the export of other grains like corn, barley, and rye.
The quotas set by the Russian government are designed to regulate exports and ensure sufficient domestic supply. During this period, only 10.6 million tons of wheat will be allowed for export, with other grains facing zero export quotas. This will significantly affect the export dynamics, as wheat will dominate Russia’s grain exports while other grains face restrictions.
In addition to the export quotas, there are medium-term plans to expand wheat exports to countries like Vietnam. Titov noted that the removal of certain phytosanitary restrictions in 2023 has allowed Russia to increase its wheat exports to Vietnam, reaching over 500,000 tons. There is a potential for Russia to increase exports to Vietnam to 1.5-2 million tons annually, thanks to the growing demand in the region and better trade relations.
Despite these opportunities, the overall wheat export volume in 2024 is expected to be lower than the record-setting exports of the previous year. Russia’s grain harvest in 2024 was not as large as in 2023, which will likely result in a smaller overall export volume. The official forecast for total grain exports from Russia in the 2024/25 season is estimated to be between 55 to 60 million tons. This represents a decrease from the previous year, when exports reached 72.2 million tons, including 54.1 million tons of wheat.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has adjusted its forecast for Russia’s wheat exports downward, predicting a reduction of 1 million tons to 46 million tons for the 2024/25 season. However, the export of feed grains like barley is expected to increase slightly, from 6.2 million tons to 6.23 million tons.
For farmers, agronomists, and agricultural engineers, the changes to Russia’s grain export system in 2024 highlight the need to closely monitor government regulations and global demand trends. While wheat’s dominance in exports may increase, the overall export volume will likely be lower than in previous years. It is important for stakeholders in the agricultural industry to adapt to these shifting dynamics, particularly as Russia looks to strengthen its position in markets like Vietnam, while navigating lower grain harvests and export quotas.
Error
