Export and Import Trends

Trade relations between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Russia in 2025 are undergoing significant shifts, driven by geopolitical realignments and evolving global economic dynamics. While competition in Asian energy markets remains strong, ongoing strategic dialogue and bilateral agreements reflect a growing interest in strengthening cooperation and diversifying areas of partnership.

Key Sectors of Trade

• Energy: Oil and gas continue to dominate the trade relationship, with both sides seeking to coordinate positions in global energy markets despite intensifying competition in Asia.
• Technology and Equipment: Trade includes industrial machinery, energy-related technologies, and infrastructure equipment, supported by government-to-government agreements and ministerial dialogues.
• Agriculture and Basic Commodities: Russia remains a major supplier of grains, fertilizers, and agricultural products that support Gulf food security, while GCC countries export petrochemicals, aluminum, and metal products to Russia.

Major Exports and Imports

• Russia’s Exports to the GCC: Oil and gas, industrial machinery and equipment, grains, and fertilizers.
• GCC Exports to Russia: Petrochemicals, aluminum and metal products, as well as selected processed food items.

Global Challenges Shaping Trade

• Supply Chain Disruptions: Rising shipping and logistics costs are pushing both sides to explore alternative routes and logistics hubs.
• Shifts in Energy Demand: Russia’s growing energy deals with China are reshaping market balances in Asia, prompting Gulf exporters to adopt more flexible marketing and pricing strategies.
• Financial and Regulatory Environment: Sanctions and compliance requirements are reshaping payment systems and pricing mechanisms, with Russia and the GCC exploring bilateral arrangements to ease restrictions.

Agreements and Institutional Cooperation

In 2025, the eighth ministerial meeting of the GCC–Russia Strategic Dialogue was held in Sochi, reaffirming commitments to expand cooperation in trade, energy, and infrastructure. This reflects a shared institutional intent to deepen economic ties despite global uncertainties.

Future Outlook

Trade between the GCC and Russia is expected to continue growing selectively, led by sector-specific deals in energy, industrial equipment, and agriculture.

• Food Security: Gulf imports of Russian grains and fertilizers are likely to expand under more flexible logistical and financial arrangements.
• Technology and Services: Opportunities are emerging in industrial technologies, cybersecurity, and low-emission energy systems.
• Asian and South Asian Markets: Both sides will compete and cooperate in these regions, particularly in energy and petrochemicals, creating new avenues for integration.