The number of countries purchasing Russian wheat fell sharply, from 43 in August 2025 to just 16 in August 2026, Elena Tyurina, director of the analytical department of the Russian Grain Union, said.

According to Tyurina, Russia exported 1.7 million tonnes of grain in August, including 1.3 million tonnes of wheat, The Caspian Post reports, citing Interfax.

Exports of grains and legumes decreased 3.5-fold compared with the same period last year, while wheat shipments declined 3.8-fold. Barley exports also fell threefold.

Egypt remained the largest buyer of Russian wheat, purchasing 450,000 tonnes, although its imports decreased 2.2-fold.

Bangladesh imported 160,600 tonnes, down 1.7-fold, while Saudi Arabia purchased 115,000 tonnes.

Nigeria received 52,000 tonnes of Russian wheat, while Israel imported 41,500 tonnes. Shipments to Nigeria declined fourfold, whereas exports to Israel fell 15.5-fold.

At the same time, several new destinations emerged in August. Venezuela purchased 84,000 tonnes, Indonesia imported 66,000 tonnes and Iran received 26,500 tonnes.

Exports to Sri Lanka rose 1.7-fold to 77,000 tonnes, while shipments to Yemen increased by 8.5% to 53,700 tonnes.