Wheat Production and Exports in Russia: Prospects for Increasing Supplies to China

The increasing role of Russia as a key player in the global grain market and the strategic importance of the Chinese market for Russian exports determine the relevance of the research topic. Wheat is one of Russia's main export crops, providing a significant share of foreign exchange earnings and supporting the agricultural sector of the economy. In the context of the changing geopolitical situation and the growing demand for food in China, the study of prospects for increasing Russian wheat supplies is becoming particularly relevant. The purpose of the study.

The purpose of the study is to compare wheat production in Russia and China in the context of assessing the potential for increasing supplies to the Chinese market and drawing up recommendations for the development of their trade and economic relations.

Materials and methods. The theoretical and methodological basis of the research is the scientific works of domestic and foreign scientists and specialists, legislative and regulatory acts, reference materials and periodical press data. The empirical basis of the study was made up of data from the Federal State Statistics Service of Russia (Rosstat), the National Bureau of Statistics of China, and publications in open sources. The object of the study is the process of wheat production and exports in Russia, with an emphasis on the prospects for increasing supplies to China. Statistical methods were used in the paper: descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, dynamic series analysis, monographic and other research methods.

Results. The author's approach in the presented study allowed for a comprehensive analysis and identification that Russia has significant potential to increase wheat exports to China. Despite the fact that China is the world leader in wheat production, their level of selfsufficiency is about 93%. As a result, the country is forced to import grain to meet the needs of its large population. Russia is a leader in wheat exports, has great export potential and demonstrates one of the highest self-sufficiency rates, reaching 204%. In this regard, increasing wheat exports to China is a strategically important and mutually beneficial direction for the Russian Federation.

Conclusion. Taking into account the results obtained, increasing the supply of Russian wheat to China is a strategically promising area that meets both Russia's economic interests (export diversification, increased foreign exchange earnings) and China's political goals (reducing dependence on Western suppliers, strengthening food security). Realizing this potential requires comprehensive measures to develop logistics by solving infrastructure problems, including the expansion of the Baikal-Amur Mainline and Trans-Siberian Railway, and the construction of terminals; increased rail transportation across the border; active use of the Northern Sea Route, as well as adaptation to standards and strengthening of bilateral cooperation.

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