IBAC

Russia and Africa: How to Transform Potential into Sustainable Trade Growth? Russia's trade turnover with African countries has already exceeded $27 billion and is expected to double to $50-60 billion by 2030. Moscow currently leads among Russian exporting regions, accounting for more than a third of the total, but competition on the continent is growing. Besides Moscow, which exports medical equipment and pharmaceuticals, other drivers include: Krasnodar Krai: The main agro-industrial hub and supplier of wheat to Egypt (7.8 million tons) and Algeria. Rostov Oblast specializes in the export of crop products, vegetable oils, and agricultural machinery. St. Petersburg: Second-largest exporter of marine equipment and electronics. Ural Federal District: Mining equipment and metallurgy. Tatarstan: KAMAZ trucks, helicopters, and tires. The main barriers hindering trade growth are the low solvency of some countries and significant transportation distances, which leads to lower margins on trade transactions. The extremely low level of mineral fertilizer application per hectare (20 kg in Africa versus 200 kg, for example, in China) represents a huge potential resource for Russian chemical producers. Russian companies that learn to work with local specifics now will be able to gain authority and trust in this market in the future. #Analytics #RussiaAfrica #Economy

Russia is shifting its paradigm: from raw materials to technology exports to BRICS. Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev announced a strategic shift in cooperation with its BRICS partners. Russia intends to develop cooperation not only through traditional energy supplies but also through the active export of technologies and engineering solutions. New members of the organization (Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE, and others) are experiencing severe shortages of baseload generation in some regions. Many of them have ambitious plans for further industrialization and production growth, but lack the necessary technologies in nuclear and hydropower. Rosatom is a global leader in nuclear technology with a completely independent supply chain (from uranium mining to fuel and services). The corporation is already building or plans to build units in India, China, Egypt, Turkey, and elsewhere. Another strength of the Russian energy sector is RusHydro, which has expertise in large-scale hydropower, among the best in the world. The potential for projects in Africa and South America is enormous. The economic impact of shifting from one-time resource sales to long-term service contracts is significant and significantly increases added value. BRICS partners are willing to pay in their national currencies, reducing dependence on Western sanctions. A geopolitical bonus is the strengthening of multipolarity: countries in the Global South gain an alternative to Western technologies without political strings attached, creating a new technological alliance within BRICS. The plans are quite realistic. Russia possesses a unique combination of technology, experience, and trust in the countries of the Global South. The main challenges are speed of implementation and protection from potential hybrid attacks by the West. If real supply and service chains are established, this will become one of the most successful areas of Russian foreign economic policy over the next 10-15 years. #MinistryOfEnergy #Russia #Energy #BRICS #Technology

Ghanaian Cocoa: Strategic Opportunities for Russian Business amid Global Shifts Ghana, the world's second-largest cocoa bean producer, is actively diversifying its export routes. Strengthening European regulations, logistical challenges, and rising intermediary costs are prompting Accra to seek direct, long-term partners. Russia is seen as one of the most promising destinations in this context. Current Market Size: Ghana's expected cocoa harvest in 2025 is approximately 650,000 tons. Trade turnover between Ghana and Russia in 2025 reached $1.85 billion (an increase of 10-15% year-on-year). Ghana's cocoa bean exports in the 2024/2025 season totaled $3.37 billion (an increase of 119% compared to the previous season). Cocoa currently accounts for approximately 10% of Ghana's total exports to Russia. Dr. Lawrence Awuku-Boateng, President of the Ghana-Russia Business Development Council, emphasizes the shift from intermediary arrangements to direct cooperation between Russian and Ghanaian companies in the agro-processing sector. Currently, the majority of Ghanaian cocoa enters the Russian market through European traders, which significantly increases the final price and creates additional currency and logistical risks. The most promising models of cooperation are: Trade exchange schemes ("cocoa for fertilizer and agricultural machinery") – these allow for simultaneous resolution of financing issues and minimization of currency risks. Development of direct logistics corridors (sea and multimodal transport). Development of sustainable payment mechanisms in national currencies through intergovernmental agreements. Expanding the Russian route does not require a significant increase in overall production in Ghana; it is a matter of redistributing existing export flows. At the same time, Ghana gains a stable and predictable market, while Russia gains access to high-quality raw materials at more competitive prices, diversifies supplies, and strengthens its position in Africa overall. This cooperation fits perfectly with the BRICS framework and Russia's strategy for developing economic ties with the Global South. #Ghana #Russia #GlobalSouth

The Great African Railway: Promising Projects for Russian Railways In 2025, Russian Railways signed several important memorandums of cooperation with Burkina Faso, Ghana, and South Africa on developing railway infrastructure on the African continent. The company is also exploring the possibility of implementing major projects in other countries in the region. While China is actively building railways (for example, the Lobito Corridor in Angola and the extension of TAZARA), and the West is promoting its own initiatives, Russia has the expertise to offer Africa unique conditions and a comprehensive approach to project implementation, unlike other proposed or already underway projects on the continent. Africa is currently experiencing a real railway boom: the continent is striving for integration, the creation of new transport corridors, and access to ports. Standard gauge (1435 mm) projects could radically change the logistics of East and Central Africa. Russian Railways has extensive experience building and operating railways in challenging environments—from Cuba and Venezuela to Mongolia and Vietnam. This could become a key area of ​​economic cooperation in the coming years. #RussianRailways #Africa #CooperationProspects

The key for Russian business in Africa: "Go to Africa only with an experienced guide." Yulia Berg, Director of the International Business Acceleration Center, explains why it's not enough for businesses to simply read about the continent's countries online before entering Africa—in a detailed interview with Komsomolskaya Pravda. After a long hiatus, Russian business is actively returning to the African continent. The impetus was generated by the first Russia-Africa Summit in 2019, and interest has only intensified since 2022-2023. However, Yulia Berg cautions: Africa is not a single market, but 54 very different countries. And one of the main misconceptions is to approach the continent as a single entity. Berg notes that legal systems vary greatly depending on their colonial past. Former British colonies are governed by Anglo-Saxon law, while Francophone Africa is governed by continental law. These are fundamentally different approaches to contracts, dispute resolution, and business. Entering Africa without a reliable local or highly experienced "guide" who understands the specifics of a particular country, its culture, elites, and the "rules of the game" is extremely risky. You can quickly lose not only money but also time. "Our company does just that. Thanks to our practical experience in more than 20 countries where we've actively worked, we have a real understanding and information that you can't find online or on official portals. This is especially important in Africa, especially in Francophone countries," emphasized Yulia Berg.  At the same time, the director of the International Business Acceleration Center is confident that now is the best time for Russian business on the continent. But success will depend not only on desire, but on proper preparation and the right partnerships. #RussiaAfrica #BusinessInAfrica #AfricanMarket #YuliaBerg

Russia Day! Russia is not only its borders, but also the people, factories, ships, planes and contracts that connect us with partners around the world. Our country has always been and remains a reliable shoulder for those who choose honest and mutually beneficial business. Today, Russian companies are strengthening their positions in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. We are building not just economic ties - we are building trust. And this is also a part of our national character. Happy holiday, colleagues. Happy Great Country Day!

Congo awaits Russian business: "Most of the periodic table elements are here." The deepwater port of Pointe-Noire, built with Soviet participation, makes Congo a key logistics hub for West and Central Africa. And attitudes toward Russia are among the best on the continent: over 90% of the population considers Russia a friendly country. This was stated in an interview for Soloviev Life by Andrey Gromov, founder of the consulting agency GR-group. According to him, Congo has colossal resource potential—one can find "practically all of the periodic table elements" in the country. At the same time, the republic strives to diversify its international cooperation with a focus on countries in the Global South, and the role of Russian partners is growing. Russia and Congo are already implementing large-scale joint projects. An investment protection agreement has been ratified, creating favorable conditions for Russian business. "The terms Russia is offering are based on a mutually beneficial strategic partnership, and they are much better than the onerous terms imposed by France," Gromov emphasized. The final assessment sounds like a direct invitation: "The Republic of Congo is one of the best places in Africa for our entrepreneurs to start a business. Come, we are ready to provide comprehensive assistance." #RussiaAfrica #Congo #business #investments

Electricity, Water, Education: Yulia Berg on Congo's Main Problems and Interest in Russia On the "Mama Africa" ​​program on the "Soloviev LIVE" channel, Yulia Berg, founder of the International Business Acceleration Center (IBAC), discussed the socioeconomic situation in the Republic of Congo and how Russia can help address it. Our large-scale socioeconomic study, which covered all 15 departments of the country, identified Congo's main problems as limited access to clean water, unstable electricity, and a lack of quality education. "Electricity in remote areas sometimes comes on for a couple of hours, a couple of times a week, and that's it. Naturally, this significantly hinders other opportunities," the expert noted. At the same time, Russia maintains a strong position in Congo. The Russian House has been operating since 1968, and hundreds of Congolese students have studied or are studying at Russian universities. "You often meet someone who speaks Russian and speaks very warmly of this experience," Berg emphasized. Russian businesses have significant opportunities for cooperation with Congo, from energy modernization to educational and infrastructure projects. And the locals' strong interest in all things Russian creates fertile ground for a long-term partnership. #RussiaAfrica #Congo #energy #education

Russia and Africa are shifting from a humanitarian to a technological partnership On May 28, the State Duma held a roundtable discussion on cooperation with Africa in food security and the agricultural sector. Participants—relevant companies, large businesses, and academia—discussed the localization of agricultural production, technology transfer, logistics, financing, and personnel training. Deputy State Duma Speaker Alexander Babakov, opening the final meeting of the Expert Council of the current Duma, emphasized continuity: "Successful practices serve as the basis for replication. I am confident that with the beginning of the new convocation, cooperation with Africa will receive new impetus." Deputy Chairman of the Expert Council Nikolai Novichkov explained the choice of the agricultural topic: "Our shared goal is to move beyond simple grain supplies to technological cooperation. Our African partners are interested in local production and advanced processing." Tatyana Dovgalenko, Director of the African Partnership Department, recalled the continent's resources: "African countries possess colossal resources. Russia, having successfully achieved food sovereignty, is ready to share its experience." Yulia Berg, Director of the International Business Acceleration Center (IBAC), proposed a preventive buyback mechanism: "For cooperation to be sustainable and profitable, it is necessary to build supply chains with a mandatory element of reverse imports, as well as those that would allow for the development of a preventive buyback mechanism. For example, Russian supplies of fertilizers and equipment could be accompanied by a guaranteed return of agricultural products from the previous harvest. This would create long-term commercial guarantees for both parties and would allow the high margins currently lost to foreign players (especially when it comes to coffee, cocoa beans, and nuts) to be channeled into the development of mutually beneficial partnerships. This would also allow to focus on  development and implementation of standardized agro-industrial complex models." Following the meeting, experts concluded that the course has been set to transition from raw materials and humanitarian formats to a full-fledged technological alliance. #RussiaAfrica #AgroIndustrialComplex

Gromov: Investments in Africa Can Bring Up to 100% Annual Return In an interview with Komsomolskaya Pravda, Andrey Gromov, founder of the consulting agency GR-Group, discussed the opportunities currently opening up for Russian businesses in Africa, the barriers companies face, and why the continent is called the most promising market in the world. According to Gromov, entrepreneurs shouldn't fear Africa. "This isn't the global 10-15%, but 100% annual return — a real return on investment. High profitability can be found in any niche on the continent," the expert noted. At the same time, the main barriers aren't crime and corruption, as is often assumed, but infrastructure and legislation. "The energy grid complex was built locally; depreciation is high, with losses exceeding 50%. Modernization is needed. Legislation is different everywhere and not optimized for investment," Gromov explained. However, the risks are mitigated not only by profits but also by special relationships. Unlike the Chinese, who withdraw at the first sign of trouble, Russia doesn't abandon its partners in difficult times. The Soviet legacy also helps: 30% of the African Energy Association's members are graduates of Soviet and Russian universities, which greatly simplifies negotiations. One of the promising areas is tourism. "Infrastructure isn't always sufficient, but for the same amount of money, you can get much more than at prestigious resorts," Gromov believes. Thus, Africa is the fastest-growing market with a huge consumption gap and a rich resource base. For Russian businesses willing to take risks and invest, this is a window of opportunity that shouldn't be missed. #RussiaAfrica #business

From Algeria to Nigeria: Moscow's exports to Africa increased 52-fold In the first quarter of 2026, Moscow companies supplied goods and services to Africa worth 586 million rubles—52 times more than the previous year. Algeria received 89% of these exports (primarily food products), while Nigeria focused on IT and telecommunications. In 2025, the total volume of finished goods exported from Moscow to the continent exceeded 2.2 billion rubles. Electronics and electrical equipment led the way, accounting for almost 60%. Medical and pharmaceutical products, as well as consumer goods, are also in strong demand. In recent years, the Moscow Economic Center (MEC) has organized 19 international events in seven African countries, attended by over 370 Moscow companies. Specific projects are already underway: supplies of ion-exchange nutrient substrate for plants (a solution particularly in demand in drought-stricken African countries), smart sensors for livestock disease diagnostics in South Africa, functional prosthetics in Sudan, and biologically active supplements in Egypt. This year, Moscow companies will be able to participate in Made in Moscow program events abroad in South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and other countries. Furthermore, the capital will host its first reverse business mission with Kenyan partners. #RussiaAfrica #Sudan #SouthAfrica #Nigeria #Algeria

A Victory That Opened Horizons May 9th is not only a day of remembrance and pride. It is the day when the Soviet soldier defended not just borders, but the country's very right to sovereign development. This right is something we exercise today, building international economic ties, launching joint projects, and opening new markets. Engineering schools, factories, transportation arteries—everything that forms the basis of modern business cooperation grew out of post-war reconstruction. And today, as Russian business confidently expands into Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, it is the foundation laid by the generation of victors. Happy holiday! Happy Great Victory Day.

From fishing yards to digitalization: Russia and Morocco are expanding economic cooperation Russian parliamentarians returned from a working visit to Morocco with specific areas for cooperation. Senator Alexander Dvoynykh noted that the countries possess significant potential, particularly in agriculture and energy. The parties have already established a solid foundation: in 2016, they agreed on a strategic approach to partnership, and in 2025, an intergovernmental commission was convened to identify key areas. One successful example is the fisheries agreement, which the Moroccan side is implementing responsibly. Furthermore, servicing of Russian vessels at local shipyards is expanding. In the agricultural sector, cooperation is built on complementarity: Russia imports citrus fruits, fruits, and vegetables, and exports grain, technology, crop protection products, and breeding research. According to the senator, the countries are beginning to more actively collaborate in the energy sector, with Russian companies seen as strong players amid growing demand in Morocco. Digitalization, cybersecurity, pharmaceuticals, and tourism are also being discussed. Direct flights between Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Casablanca are already contributing to the growth of mutual tourism. Such high-level business trips are a signal that the two sides intend to move from words to action. #RussiaAfrica #Morocco

From medical equipment to prefabricated buildings: Kaluga businesses seek partners in Africa Kaluga manufacturers held talks with delegations from Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Algeria. The meeting was organized by the Export Support Center. Representatives of gold mining companies, as well as companies involved in construction and road infrastructure, attended the meeting. The Kaluga Region was represented by five companies: electrical equipment manufacturer TD KVT, medical equipment manufacturer DS Prom, agricultural machinery manufacturer Sive, prefabricated buildings manufacturer Stiller, and facade systems manufacturer Yukon International. "Since 2023, African countries have regularly been among Russia's top five partners. Kaluga entrepreneurs already supply products to Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, Algeria, and Ethiopia. Now they want to significantly expand their presence in energy, agriculture, and construction," said Ekaterina Petrova, head of the Export Support Center. Other regions are also interested in the African market. The Novosibirsk Region, for example, recently made a name for itself: the telecommunications equipment manufacturer Eltex has already entered the Egyptian and Nigerian markets. Overall, the region traded with 26 countries on the continent in 2025, supplying grain, cereals, heating equipment, and machinery. Meetings of this format aren't about quick contracts, but rather systematic work. But this is precisely how Russian businesses gradually, region by region, build their presence in a large market. #RussiaAfrica #KalugaRegion #NovosibirskRegion

Logistics, Energy, and Manufacturing as a Single Mechanism: Africa Needs an Integrated Approach Russian companies are actively eyeing Africa, but successful operations on the continent require a systemic approach. This was discussed, among other things, at the International Transport and Logistics Forum. The Russian Export Center (REC) notes that interest in Africa is growing on both sides. Companies willing to invest in a comprehensive presence—from logistics to education—can count on long-term success in this market. According to Nikita Gusakov, Senior Vice President of the REC, effective cooperation with the continent requires the simultaneous development of logistics, manufacturing, and the electric power industry. Logistics should facilitate the expansion of production, while energy should meet its needs. In the coming decades, African countries will focus on infrastructure development, and those that offer the most effective solutions will have a chance of success. A key factor is joining forces: both with local players and with partners from the Middle East, China, and Turkey. Through such alliances, it is possible to implement large projects, mobilizing resources within Africa itself. Payment logistics are a separate barrier. Currently, trade with the continent is conducted through indirect channels, leading to significant increases in product prices. Direct payment infrastructure and alternative mechanisms, including cryptocurrency (which is already actively used in Africa even for everyday payments), could solve this problem. Finally, human capital. Joint educational programs and increased quotas for African students at Russian universities strengthen ties, create a talent pool, and potentially contribute to the growth of industrial production and trade. #RussiaAfrica #Africa

From South Africa to Indonesia: Russian Business Expands Presence Russian companies are stepping up their activities in Asian and African markets. Russian and South African business circles are regularly discussing practical projects, and Pretoria's interest in importing Russian LNG is noticeably growing. Russian Ambassador to South Africa Roman Ambarov told Izvestia. According to the diplomat, mutual interest in exchanging experience, developing joint projects, and expanding practical cooperation remains high. Russian banks, in particular Gazprombank's African subsidiary, are already involved in projects to modernize the country's energy infrastructure. At the same time, Russia is conducting dialogue with Indonesia. Cooperation issues are being discussed on a working basis between relevant agencies, according to the Russian Embassy in Jakarta. However, the topic remains sensitive and is not being made public. Previously, the authorities of Bangladesh, Thailand, and Sri Lanka expressed their readiness to discuss the purchase of Russian oil. According to Reuters, the South Korean government is also considering importing Russian crude oil and petroleum products. Infrastructure and logistics development will be required to launch new supplies. In the case of South Africa, this requires the construction of an LNG terminal. In the oil sector, it is important that local refineries be technologically adapted to Russian grades. Russian businesses are expanding their geographic presence, taking advantage of the window of opportunity opened by the easing of sanctions. The focus is not only on traditional partners but also on new markets in Asia and Africa. #Russia #SouthAfrica #Indonesia

Dear female partners, colleagues, and friends! The IBAC team warmly congratulates you on International Women's Day! In the world of big business and international negotiations, traditionally dominated by rigid rules and cold calculations, you bring something more — the art of negotiation, the ability to build long-term relationships, and a strategic sense based not only on numbers but also on a deep understanding of human nature. Today, a feminine leadership style is becoming a competitive advantage in the global economy. Your ability to combine ambition with flexibility, decisiveness with diplomacy, creates new standards of business ethics and efficiency. You prove that true success in business is built not on confrontation, but on trust and the ability to find common ground even where none seems possible. We are proud that in our community, women leaders are setting the tone in the most complex discussions about the future of the global economy, investment, and sustainable development. Your voice carries weight and conviction on issues that affect the well-being of millions. We wish you reliable partners and large-scale projects that change the world for the better! May your business bring you not only profit but also genuine satisfaction, and may a warm haven always await you at home, where you are valued not for your achievements, but simply for who you are. With respect and admiration, IBAC

Changes in the structure of Russian exports: goods segment growth by 9.5%, reaching 13 trillion rubles Russia's non-resource, non-energy exports grew by almost 9.5% by the end of 2025, reaching 13 trillion rubles. Friendly states accounted for 86% of this total. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin announced this in the State Duma during his report on the government's work. Growth drivers included the restructuring of supply chains and the integration of supplies into transport corridors to Africa and South America. At the same time, the government is expanding its range of trading partners: free trade agreements with Mongolia, the UAE, and Indonesia were signed in 2025. Now, a fifth of foreign trade turnover is on preferential terms. More than 40 barriers to Russian exports have been removed, with an economic impact of approximately 130 billion rubles. In the future, companies will be able to locate production at key points along Russian international routes to reduce their dependence on transit through unfriendly countries. Today, the focus is not simply on redirecting flows, but on shifting from raw materials to high-value-added goods. Strengthening ties with Asia, Africa, and South America creates a long-term foundation for businesses to operate in new markets. #Russia #export #logistics #trade

Happy Defender of the Fatherland Day! Today, this holiday takes on a special, profound meaning. Now, more than ever, we understand who the true defenders of our country are. On the front lines, our soldiers defend not just borders—they defend Russia's right to exist, to its own path, to a sovereign future. We bow to the veterans of the Great Patriotic War, who bequeathed us Victory. We honor the memory of those who have fallen today. And we thank those who carry out combat missions today, risking their lives for us. Those who preserve what is dear to them and defend what they believe in. Courage, valor, loyalty to the oath and to their country—these qualities are now on display daily on the front lines. We bow deeply to you. Every day, you prove that our Motherland is under reliable protection. Thanks to you, we have the opportunity to contribute to our common future by strengthening and developing other areas! We wish all defenders of the Fatherland good health, fortitude, confidence in the future, and a speedy return home victorious. With respect and sincere congratulations, IBAC!