Morocco became one of the top buyers of Russia’s West Siberian Railway (WSR) grain exports in 2024, with shipments soaring to 514,000 tons, nearly nine times the volumes of 2023, according to African Initiative.
WSR has experienced significant growth in recent years in its overall volume of goods shipped, but especially in Russian grain exports. The daily transportation of grain reached new records in 2024, with 302 cars having been shipped in just 24 hours, breaking the previous record set in 2021.
This record growth reflects the WSR’s logistical efficiency and capacity to handle the increased demand for grain transport. The milestone also reflects Russia’s strategic commitment to bolstering its agricultural trade with North African and Middle Eastern countries.
As one of the largest importers of grain in North Africa, Morocco is now playing a critical role in the region’s food supply chain. With the global grain market facing increasing uncertainties due to political tensions, climate change, and fluctuating production levels, Morocco’s decision to diversify its sources of grain supply has proven to be a wise one. Russian grain has become an important pillar in supporting Morocco’s growing demand for food security, with shipments of wheat and other grains helping to stabilize the market.
Eduard Zernin, Chairperson of the Union of Grain Exporters, recently highlighted the increasing importance of Morocco as a priority market for Russian wheat exports. Since the beginning of the 2024-2025 season, Russia has shipped over 650,000 metric tons of wheat to Morocco, a significant rise compared to the same period last year.
Morocco has now joined the ranks of the top ten wheat buyers globally, further solidifying its role as a major player in the international grain market. This is a turning point in Russia’s trade relations with Morocco, signaling the growing diversification of its agricultural exports to the region.
Strong demand for Russian wheat in Morocco from July through October 2024 positioned the kingdom as one of the most important buyers of Russian grain in North Africa.
Zernin highlighted that the Middle East and North Africa, with Morocco at the forefront, are now critical markets for Russian grain exports, showcasing Russia’s focus on strengthening its economic presence in these regions. The trend is likely to continue in the coming years as Morocco continues to bolster its grain import infrastructure and address its food security needs.
The increase in Russian grain exports to Morocco is part of a broader strategic effort by Russia to deepen its trade relations with African and Arab countries, particularly in the face of economic sanctions and restrictions from Western nations.
Russia’s growing trade ties with these regions are an integral part of its long-term strategy to diversify its export markets and reduce dependency on European trade. By positioning itself as a reliable supplier of grain and other agricultural products, Russia aims to ensure a stable supply of food to its international partners while reinforcing its geopolitical influence in Africa and the Middle East.