Global Grain Dialogue: Russian Grain Forum Eyes Deeper Ties with Middle East & Central Asia
This interview was conducted by the “Negashteh” editorial team.
The Russian Grain Forum is entering a new stage of international collaboration, with a strong focus on expanding grain exports, particularly to the Middle East and Central Asia.
In an exclusive interview with Negashteh, one of the Forum’s key organizers shared insight into the Forum’s objectives, upcoming themes, and its growing role in shaping global grain trade.
Now in its fourth year, the Forum has evolved from a national dialogue into an international platform, growing its number of participants more than threefold since its inception. It aims to foster cooperation among stakeholders, facilitate discussions on the grain sector’s most pressing issues, and encourage government-industry dialogue.
In 2025, the agenda expands to include exports of processed agricultural products — a first for the Forum — in addition to ongoing discussions about the grain and legume markets. This development reflects the Forum’s evolution from a Russian-only venue to a truly global meeting point for grain professionals.
Export remains at the heart of discussions. As the world’s leading wheat exporter, Russia sees grain exports as a strategic priority, particularly amid global supply chain shifts.
The Forum will once again gather a wide range of stakeholders: grain producers, processors, exporters, agricultural equipment manufacturers, transporters, and representatives from banks. Government bodies such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Rosselkhoznadzor, Federal Customs Service, and the Grain Quality Assessment Center are also expected to participate.
For the first time, the 2025 Forum will feature specialized exhibition booths, offering participants a unique chance to showcase their products tangibly and interact directly with partners and clients.
A special welcome is extended to delegations from Iran and the Middle East, with whom Russia seeks to deepen trade ties. The MENA region already accounts for over 50% of Russia’s wheat exports in 2024, emphasizing its strategic importance.
The “Negashteh” team has proudly served as a Media Partner of this Forum every year.
