New Delhi, Delhi, India | 27th September 2025: The Forum of Indian Food Importers (FIFI) recently hosted a high-level engagement with the visiting Russian delegation at The Oberoi, New Delhi. The meeting focused on accelerating agricultural trade between India and Russia, while advancing bilateral agri-food cooperation to benefit Indian consumers, producers, and businesses.
The Russian delegation was led by Mr. Maxim Marcovich, Deputy Minister (Secretary), Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, and included dignitaries such as Mr. Ivan Nosov, CEO of SBER Bank, Mr. Iliya Ilushin, Head of Russian Agro Industry, and Dr. Konstantin Malashenkov, Counselor (Agriculture) at the Russian Embassy in India. Representing FIFI were board members Mr. Amit Lohani, Mr. Manoj Duggar, Mr. Pankaj Singhal, Mr. Puneet Gupta, Mr. Rakesh Banga, and Mr. Uday Chugh.
Advancing the India–Russia Agri-Food Agenda
The discussions aligned with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who has consistently emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships in agriculture and food trade. FIFI leaders shared insights on India’s growing role in international food trade and reiterated the forum’s commitment to fostering resilient, sustainable, and knowledge-driven partnerships.
Mr. Amit Lohani, Founder Director of FIFI, highlighted the opportunity, stating:
“This is an opportune time to deepen India–Russia trade collaboration in ways that safeguard consumer interests, create value for businesses, and ensure sustainability. FIFI is proud to be leading efforts that will strengthen bilateral trade dynamics and enhance the agri-food ecosystem.”
Russian Perspective on Bilateral Trade
Russian representatives, including Mr. Marcovich, emphasized the vast potential of the Russian market for Indian agricultural and food exports. Moscow expressed strong intent to support greater market access for Indian companies, underlining its commitment to building a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship.
Mr. Uday Chugh, Founder Director of FIFI, added:
“Key priorities for advancing India–Russia agri-food trade include easing market access, investing in supply chain efficiency, diversifying India’s export basket, and creating consumer trust through branding and awareness. These steps will not only strengthen bilateral ties but also deliver greater value to Indian consumers.”
Strengthening India–Russia Trade Relations
With both nations committed to greater cooperation, the engagement between FIFI and the Russian delegation marks an important milestone in expanding agricultural trade. By focusing on market access, supply chain efficiency, export diversification, and consumer awareness, India and Russia are poised to deepen their agri-food trade partnership in the years ahead.
