Tanzania is targeting a 47 percent increase in exports to Russia as trade between the two countries expands rapidly, driven by strong demand for agricultural products including coffee, tobacco and tea, according to a government report.
Data from the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) shows that exports to Russia have grown more than 315 percent between 2021 and 2025, rising from US$7.1 million to US$29.5 million.
Despite the sharp increase, Tanzania continues to run a significant trade deficit with Russia, as imports from the country reached US$253.4 million last year, compared with relatively modest export earnings.
This resulted in a trade gap of US$223.9 million in 2025, following an even wider deficit of US$378.4 million in 2023, highlighting the imbalance in bilateral trade flows.
The report, released on May 26, 2026, identified an untapped export opportunity of about US$14 million in the Russian market, suggesting scope for further growth if Tanzanian producers can improve competitiveness and market access.
TanTrade Director General Latifa Khamis said Russia represents a growing opportunity for Tanzanian exporters, particularly in coffee, avocados, cocoa beans, flowers, cloves and cashew nuts.
She said exporters should take advantage of rising demand in the Russian market while improving product quality, value addition and compliance with international standards to secure a larger share of trade.
Coffee remains the country’s leading export product with the highest untapped potential, estimated at US$3.8 million between 2026 and 2030, followed by avocados at US$1.8 million as demand for fresh and healthy food products rises among Russian consumers.
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Other promising export products include cocoa beans, flowers, cloves and cashew nuts, each identified as having modest but growing market potential.
The report also highlights emerging opportunities in meat, fruits and horticultural products, reflecting efforts by Tanzania to diversify its export base beyond traditional commodities.
Officials say Russia is becoming an increasingly important alternative market for Tanzanian goods as exporters seek to reduce reliance on established trading partners in Europe and Asia.
However, analysts note that unlocking the full potential of the Russian market will require improvements in logistics infrastructure, processing capacity and awareness among local producers about international trade requirements.
TanTrade said it will continue supporting exporters through market intelligence, trade promotion and business linkage programmes aimed at boosting competitiveness and expanding access to new markets.
Authorities have emphasised that sustained export growth will depend on Tanzania’s ability to add value to raw commodities and strengthen its integration into global supply chains.
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The government views the expansion of trade with Russia as part of a broader strategy to diversify export destinations and reduce vulnerability to shifts in traditional markets.
