Kazakhstan boosts wheat exports while importing cheaper Russian grain

Kazakhstan is simultaneously increasing exports of its own wheat and imports of cheaper Russian grain for domestic use. In September 2026, the country imported 330 thsd tons of wheat from Russia, 3.9 times more than in the same month last year. Compared to August, shipments nearly doubled from 170.4 thsd tons. According to the Grain Union of Kazakhstan, the main drivers were falling Russian wheat prices and strong demand for feed grain from domestic processors.

Lower Russian wheat prices are linked to export restrictions at Black Sea and Azov Sea ports, which have increased grain supplies on the Russian domestic market. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan is facing a shortage of Class 4 and 5 wheat needed by processing plants and poultry farms. According to the country’s Ministry of Agriculture, more than 75% of the 2026 wheat harvest meets high-quality standards, with gluten content exceeding 25%. As a result, local companies are increasingly purchasing cheaper Russian grain.

At the same time, Kazakhstan recorded its highest-ever September wheat exports, shipping 702.3 thsd tons, excluding EAEU countries. Central Asian countries and Afghanistan remain the main buyers. In particular, shipments to Afghanistan increased 3.2 times, while exports to Tajikistan rose by 17.1% and to Uzbekistan by 14.4%. Overall, Central Asian countries purchased 606.6 thsd tons of Kazakh wheat, accounting for 86.4% of total exports.

The simultaneous increase in imports of cheaper Russian wheat and record exports of Kazakh grain also raises questions about product origin and traceability. In particular, the risk of Russian grain being re-exported as Kazakh wheat or blended with locally produced grain for further shipments to third countries cannot be ruled out.

Tags: Kazakhstan, export, prices, wheat, Russia