Russia-China trade reaches $135 billion in first half of 2026

Trade between Russia and China rose by 25% year-on-year to $135 billion in the first half of 2026, according to the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation (FEDC).

The figure was cited by Zhou Liqun, chairman of the Union of Chinese Entrepreneurs in Russia, who said the increase suggests that bilateral trade could exceed its 2025 level by the end of the year, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

“From January to June 2026, trade turnover between the two countries increased by 25% to $135 billion,” Zhou said, adding that he expected full-year trade to surpass last year’s figure.

Zhou also pointed to the growing presence of Chinese businesses in Russia’s Far East, noting that their operating revenues were increasing.

He described the Eastern Economic Forum as a key platform for cooperation between Russian and Chinese businesses and said investment ties between the two countries had further potential to expand.

“I am confident that our cooperation will continue to develop and that there will be even more joint projects,” Zhou said.

By Aghakazim Guliyev