Pakistan Signs First Ever Barter Trade Deal With Russia

Two agriculture-focused companies from Pakistan and one from Russia on Tuesday inked a barter trade deal at the inaugural Pakistan-Russia Trade and Investment Forum held in Moscow. Russian company Astarta Agrotrading reached an agreement with Pakistan’s Meskay & Femtee Trading Company and National Fruit Processing Factory for procurement of chickpeas, rice, mandarins, potatoes, and red lentils. More than 60 Pakistani companies participated in the forum, from textiles and leather goods to pharmaceuticals, food, agricultural products, and tourism services. These companies collectively represent an export value exceeding $500 million, highlighting Pakistan’s ambition to strengthen trade ties with Russia. On the Russian side, more than 60 officials from key ministries, as well as representatives from the Russian Export Centre, Federal and Moscow Chambers, and major banks like MKB, took part.