Russia
General Overview
| Population: | 140,702,096 (July 2008 est.) |
| GDP (purchasing power parity): | US $2.225 trillion (2008 est.) |
| GDP per capita (PPP): | US $15,800 (2008 est.) |
| GDP (real growth rate): | 6% (2008 est.) |
| Industries: | mining and extractive industries producing coal, oil, gas, chemicals, and metals; all forms of machine building from rolling mills to high-performance aircraft and space vehicles; defense industries including radar, missile production, and advanced electronic components, shipbuilding; road and rail transportation equipment; communications equipment; agricultural machinery, tractors, and construction equipment; electric power generating and transmitting equipment; medical and scientific instruments; consumer durables, textiles, foodstuffs, handicrafts |
| Imports: | US $302 billion (2008 est.) |
| Import commodities: | vehicles, machinery and equipment, plastics, medicines, iron and steel, consumer goods, meat, fruits and nuts, semi-finished metal products |
| Exports: | US $476 billion (2008 est.) |
| Export commodities: | petroleum and petroleum products, natural gas, wood and wood products, metals, chemicals, and a wide variety of civilian and military manufactures |
| Alberta's export to Russia: | CAN $210.99 million (2007) |
| Alberta's main exports to Russia: | oil and gas field equipment, machinery, vehicles, sulfur and measuring instruments, live bovine and pork |
| Canada's main exports to Russia: | oil and gas field equipment, pork, shrimp, sulfur, office machines, plastics, agricultural equipment and transportation equipment |
For detailed information about Russia, the following websites provide economic, political and historical information:
- CIA World Factbook
- Energy Information Administration, U.S. Department of Energy
Export Statistics
For detailed statistical information on Alberta and Canadian exports to Russia, consult the following statistical publications and databases:
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Alberta's International Trade Review
An analysis of Alberta's international exports of goods and services. Published by Alberta Employment, Immigration & Industry. -
Trade Data Online
Customized reports on Canada's trade with over 200 countries.
Alberta-Russia Relations
Alberta has historically been the most active Canadian province in Russia. The majority of Alberta's private sector activities in Russia have focused on oil and gas.
- World Relations
Alberta International and Intergovernmental Relations summary of Alberta's relationship with Russia.
Sector Opportunities
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Architecture, Engineering and Construction
Western Siberia and Sakhalin Island offer the best opportunities in the engineering and industrial construction sectors.
Sakhalin Island has strict local content rules, but these can be spread over the life of the project. Most operators plan to fulfill their content quotas on the back end, meaning companies can be selective in choosing local partners and workers.
Siberia offers opportunities in gas processing plants, pipelines and refineries.
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Industrial Machinery and Equipment
BP's partnership with TNK and Conoco-Philip's partnership with Lukoil has moved the Russian industry closer to western standards.
Tendering has become much more transparent and companies are looking to upgrade old equipment and infrastructure. Enhanced oil recovery, downhole tools, fracing and seismic are currently on the wish list for most Russian companies. Processing, pipeline and refinery equipment and services are also in heavy demand.
Gazprom is moving towards liquefied natural gas and requires companies with expertise in all areas, from production to transport to processing.
Russia has a large, but undeveloped, heavy oil sector. This is an area Alberta companies should have an advantage in as Russia begins to develop their field over the next five to ten years.
For additional information on business opportunities and resources for market intelligence, visit:
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Export Source - Market and Business Opportunities
Online tool for new and experienced exporters. -
Virtual Trade Commissioner
Gateway to market information.
Exporting Your Products - Services for Exporters
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Export Alert!
A resource for exporters to learn about changes in foreign export regulations. -
Exporter Needs Continuum
Lists services that can benefit your company and who offers them. -
Export Resources
Resources for both new and experienced exporters. -
International Trade Canada
Sector reports as well as a list of staff contacts that can assist exporters.
Other Resources
Canada
Russia
- Centre for Energy Policy
- Foreign Investment Promotion Center
- Russian Embassy in Canada
- Russian Energy Monthly
- Russian Federal Customs Service
- Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Alberta International and Intergovernmental Relations Contacts
For customized export facilitation, contact our sector officers for Russia:
- Greg Jardine, Executive Director, South Asia / Oceania / Middle East and North Africa
- Norm Morrison, Trade Director, Middle East
Other Contacts:
Date Updated: Mar 18, 2009
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