Tatarstan's agri-food exports to India up 2.3 times in a year

Agri-food exports from Tatarstan to India grew 2.3 times over the past year, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food of Tatarstan Rustem Gainullov said at a session of the second Russia-India business forum, “TIME: Russia – India. Mutual Efficiency,” held in Kazan. Exports reached $61 million this year, up from $26.6 million last year, an increase of $34 million or 129%.

Gainullov said India now ranks second by volume of agri-food exports, ahead of China, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. He said the region aims to reach $100 million by the end of the year. Sunflower oil accounts for the largest share at 96.4%, with confectionery, juices, beverages and deep-processed products also exported. He called for strengthening existing ties, signing new contracts and taking part in international exhibitions.

Rakesh Kumar Srivastava, managing director of SABAVA and founder of the Russia-India Trade Center, said the two countries share a partnership built on trust and respect for more than 70 years. Describing Tatarstan as one of Russia's most successful agricultural regions, he proposed joint ventures in food processing, precision farming, micro-irrigation, agricultural machinery, storage facilities, student exchanges and farmer training.