Russia will continue to export significant amounts of grain in 2019 according to President Vladimir Putin, despite Western sanctions brought on by Moscow’s offensive in Ukraine.
“Last year, as you know, there was a historically record harvest of 158 million tons (of cereals). This year it will also be very big with over 130 millions,” Putin said.
“Russia is likely to retain the first place in the world in wheat exports. Our grain exports will also be the same as last year with not less than 50-60 million tons,” he continued.
In a meeting of the Commonwealth of Independent governments (CIS), a grouping of certain post-Soviet governments, Putin was present.
“Our friends and colleagues in the CIS have needs (for Russian grain), all of which will be fulfilled,” said Putin.
Early in September, the Russian president declared that his nation was close to reaching an agreement that would provide free grain to six African nations.
Moscow has also been claiming that by restricting its access to international payment and insurance networks, the West is indirectly reducing its exports of food and fertiliser.
It claimed that these obstacles forced it to leave a contract intended to assure secure grain exports over the Black Sea.
