Russian ice-cream sales in African countries have experienced a significant increase of 50% over the four years leading up to 2022, with exports of frozen dessert products to the continent reaching a total of 600,000 tons. This information was highlighted by Dmitry Krasnov, the head of the Russian Ministry of Agriculture’s Agroexport center, during his speech at the Russia-Africa forum in St. Petersburg.
Krasnov expressed that Russian dairy products have been gaining popularity in the African market. He further emphasized the potential for expanding the shipments of powdered milk, milk whey, and spreads to African nations. He revealed that Russia currently produces more than 24 million tons of marketable milk annually, with exports of dairy products exceeding 820,000 tons.
However, Krasnov acknowledged that the deliveries of these products to Africa are still limited, both in terms of geographic coverage and product range. In order to tap into the opportunity presented by the African market, Russian exports of dairy products need to be diversified and expanded.
The largest buyer of Russian dairy products in Africa is Senegal, accounting for 71% of the total supplies to the continent, according to Krasnov. He also mentioned the potential for increasing exports to Algeria, which is one of the largest markets for dry dairy produce. Additionally, there are opportunities to boost exports to Angola, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and Tunisia.
In terms of confectionery products, Krasnov noted that the main deliveries from Russia are to the states of North Africa, including Libya, Egypt, and Tunisia. However, he mentioned the potential for expanding cooperation with Ghana, Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Tunisia, and South Africa in this sector as well.
The increase in Russian ice-cream sales and the growing demand for dairy products in Africa reflect the continent’s changing consumer preferences and the potential for bilateral trade. As Africa continues to experience population growth, urbanization, and rising disposable incomes, there is a growing demand for diverse food products, including dairy and confectionery items. Russian companies have the opportunity to tap into this emerging market and establish long-term trade relationships.
In conclusion, Russian dairy products, including ice-cream, are increasingly gaining popularity in African countries. The potential for further growth in exports exists, and expanding trade relationships with Algeria, Angola, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Tunisia, and South Africa could be advantageous for both Russian exporters and African consumers. By diversifying and expanding their product range, Russian companies can effectively cater to the changing consumer preferences in Africa and establish a strong foothold in the continent’s dairy and confectionery markets.
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