Russia’s Ministry of Finance published an account of the 30th meeting of the Russian-Chinese Commission for the Preparation of Regular Meetings Between the Heads of Government in Moscow, highlighting growth in bilateral trade and prospects for further economic cooperation. At the meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko reported that bilateral trade increased by 25.8% in the first eight months of 2026 to more than USD 189 billion, citing Russia’s Federal Customs Service. He forecast a record annual total approaching USD 270–275 billion and cited a target of USD 300 billion by 2030. China remains Russia’s leading trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding USD 200 billion for three consecutive years. Chernyshenko also linked visa-free travel to increased business and cultural exchanges, noting that tourist traffic rose by 50% in the first half of 2026 to nearly two million trips. Scientific cooperation includes implementation of a roadmap for the Russian-Chinese Institute for Fundamental Research and support for joint research projects. The commission’s work is intended to prepare the 31st meeting between Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
Russia’s Ministry of Finance reports 25.8% growth in trade with China and forecast of USD 270–275 billion for 2026
Russia’s Ministry of Finance reported on a bilateral commission meeting at which Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko highlighted 25.8% growth in trade with China to more than USD 189 billion in the first eight months of 2026. He forecast annual trade approaching USD 270–275 billion and cited a USD 300 billion target for 2030. The meeting also reviewed expanding travel and scientific cooperation ahead of the next meeting between the countries’ heads of government.