Despite Western sanctions, Russia remains a major global supplier of key commodities—but the most profitable exports have shifted due to trade restrictions and new market demands. This guide reveals the top high-margin products to export from Russia in 2025-2026, along with the best buyer countries and payment strategies.
1. Energy & Fuel: Still Russia’s #1 Money-Maker
A. Crude Oil & Petroleum Products
- Why Profitable?
- Russia sells oil at $15-$30 below market price, attracting India, China, and Türkiye.
- “Shadow fleet” tankers bypass G7 price caps.
- Best Buyers:
- China (1.8M+ barrels/day)
- India (1.5M+ barrels/day, refining for EU re-exports)
- Türkiye, UAE, Egypt (re-export hubs)
- Key Challenge:
- High shipping costs due to sanctions.
B. Natural Gas (LNG & Pipeline)
- Why Profitable?
- Europe still buys some gas via Türkiye and Central Asia.
- China pays in yuan, avoiding sanctions.
- Best Buyers:
- China (Power of Siberia pipeline)
- Türkiye (transit hub for EU-bound gas)
- India, Pakistan (spot LNG purchases)
2. Metals & Minerals: High Demand in Asia
A. Palladium & Platinum
- Why Profitable?
- Russia produces 40% of global palladium (critical for car catalysts & electronics).
- Prices remain high due to supply shortages.
- Best Buyers:
- China (auto & tech industries)
- Japan, South Korea (via third countries)
B. Aluminum, Nickel & Copper
- Why Profitable?
- Sanctions have tightened supply, keeping prices elevated.
- Türkiye and China act as processing hubs.
- Best Buyers:
- China (largest importer)
- Türkiye (re-exports to EU)
C. Diamonds & Gold
- Why Profitable?
- Russia’s Alrosa is a top diamond producer.
- Gold is used as a sanctions-proof payment method.
- Best Buyers:
- UAE, India (cutting & reselling)
- China, Hong Kong (luxury markets)
3. Agricultural Exports: Rising Global Demand
A. Wheat & Grain
- Why Profitable?
- Russia is the world’s top wheat exporter.
- Africa and Asia face food shortages, driving demand.
- Best Buyers:
- Egypt, Türkiye, Sudan
- Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh
B. Fertilizers (Potash, Nitrogen, Phosphate)
- Why Profitable?
- Global food crisis increases fertilizer demand.
- Russia controls 20% of global potash supply.
- Best Buyers:
- Brazil, India, South Africa
- Vietnam, Malaysia
4. Military & Dual-Use Goods (High-Risk, High-Reward)
A. Arms & Ammunition
- Why Profitable?
- Russia remains the 2nd-largest arms exporter.
- Demand from Africa, Middle East, and CIS countries.
- Best Buyers:
- India, Algeria, Egypt
- Myanmar, Mali
B. Drones & Electronics
- Why Profitable?
- Components are in high demand for military and industrial use.
- China helps bypass tech bans.
- Best Buyers:
- Iran, Belarus, Venezuela
- Syria, Libya
5. Niche High-Margin Exports
A. Caviar & Seafood
- Why Profitable?
- Russian sturgeon caviar is a luxury product.
- China’s elite market pays premium prices.
- Best Buyers:
- China, UAE, Japan
B. Timber & Wood Products
- Why Profitable?
- Banned in EU, but China and Uzbekistan still buy.
- Best Buyers:
- China, Kazakhstan, Türkiye
6. How to Export Profitably Under Sanctions
A. Payment Methods That Work
- Yuan (CNY) – Preferred for China deals.
- UAE Dirhams (AED) – Neutral currency for Middle East trade.
- Cryptocurrencies (USDT, BTC) – For high-risk transactions.
- Barter (Oil for Goods) – Used with Iran, Venezuela.
B. Logistics & Shipping Tips
- Use shadow fleet tankers for oil.
- Route goods through Türkiye, UAE, or Kazakhstan to avoid sanctions.
- For small shipments, air freight via Istanbul or Dubai.
Conclusion
The most profitable Russian exports in 2025 are oil, gas, metals, grain, and arms, with China, India, and Türkiye as top buyers. While sanctions complicate trade, alternative payment systems and shipping routes keep revenue flowing.