Russian container transportation has experienced a growth of nearly 3% in the first four months of 2025, fueled primarily by exports of non-oil goods. This growth signals a positive trend for the Russian economy, especially considering a decline in oil revenue.

While oil revenues have decreased by $5.5 billion this year, increased container exports have largely compensated for this loss. This shift highlights a diversification in Russia’s export economy.

Container turnover serves as an important indicator of a country’s economic health. The growth in container traffic suggests a positive trajectory for the Russian economy.

Despite an increase in overall container traffic, there have been challenges. A 15% decrease in transit cargo, particularly rail transport from China to Europe, has been observed. This decline is attributed to heightened scrutiny of container contents by Russian authorities, affecting the transit of specific goods.

Imports have grown by 3%, driven by increased supplies of consumer goods from China, despite a decline in car imports. More significantly, exports have risen by 15%.

The composition of Russian exports to China is evolving, with a decreasing share of hydrocarbons (coal, gas, oil, and petroleum products). While these products still constitute a significant portion of exports, their share has fallen from almost 75% last year to 65% currently. This indicates a shift towards supplying products with higher added value.

Significant increases in exports include diesel fuel, copper cathodes, copper ore, copper wire, aluminum, nickel, precious metal ores, rapeseed oil, and fish. These goods have contributed an additional $4.8 billion in revenue compared to the previous year.

Additionally, there has been growth in exports of products such as heating elements for household appliances, plumbing valves, complex electronics, ferrochrome, ferrosilicon, copper matte, butyl rubber, and tungsten compounds. These goods, although exported in smaller volumes, represent valuable contributions to the Russian economy.

The successful entry of Russian pork into the Chinese market is also noteworthy, signifying progress in expanding food exports. Furthermore, increased exports of rapeseed meal complement the existing revenue from rapeseed oil.

These developments demonstrate Russia’s ability to offer competitive products in various sectors, including electronics, metallurgy, and food, indicating a diversification of its export capabilities.

These non-oil exports are contributing nearly $0.5 billion in additional revenue for Russian manufacturers. While these revenues do not replace oil income entirely, they highlight positive economic developments within Russia.