Russia and Ethiopia tripled trade turnover in 2025: the key role of fertilizers and digital projects
The trade turnover between Russia and Ethiopia tripled in January–August 2025 compared to the same period last year. This was announced by the Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation Maxim Reshetnikov during the visit of the Russian delegation to Addis Ababa.
The main area of bilateral trade this year was the supply of Russian fertilizers, which accounted for the largest share of exports. At the same time, the volume of imports of Ethiopian coffee is increasing, the supply of which to the Russian market increased by 60% in 2024.
The visit of the Russian delegation, led by Maxim Oreshkin, included talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and representatives of key ministries. The parties discussed further expansion of trade, economic and investment cooperation, including the development of e-commerce, digital economy and logistics.
"Last year, the foreign trade turnover between our countries increased by 46%. This year we see a threefold increase. This confirms the growing interest of business and the strengthening of ties between Russia and Ethiopia," Reshetnikov said.
The next meeting of the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation will be held on November 10-12, 2025 in Moscow with the participation of the Ethiopian delegation.
Experts emphasize that Ethiopia is becoming one of Russia's most promising partners in Africa, and the growth in trade reflects the successful development of the North–South corridors and an increase in the supply of agricultural and industrial goods.
