Russian grain exporters explore transit through China

Russian exporters are exploring grain shipments through China as logistical restrictions affect the Azov-Black Sea basin. Grain Association of Russia executive director Kseniia Bolomatova outlined the proposal at the Golden Autumn 2026 exhibition in Moscow on October 9.

She said redirecting shipments to Baltic ports helps serve buyers in the Middle East, Turkey, North Africa and northwestern Africa. For some Asian markets, however, the route is less convenient and logistics costs reduce the competitiveness of supplies.

Bolomatova singled out Indonesia as a destination that is harder to serve from the Baltic. Potential transit through China is being examined as an additional route to such buyers. The scheme remains under consideration, rather than being announced as operational.

Problems shipping grain through southern ports have persisted since summer. Reksoft Consulting analysts said accumulated stocks that are difficult to sell were putting pressure on prices, and exporters would need additional government support. That is an industry assessment, rather than an announcement of an approved assistance programme.