Russian Ice Cream Exports to China Decrease by 27 Times in Q1

Virtually the entire volume of shipments occurred in February, while there were no purchases from Chinese importers in January and March. This dynamic indicates instability in export channels and a decline in interest in Russian products in this market.

Amid the decline of Russian supplies, European and Asian producers hold leading positions in the Chinese ice cream market. At the end of the quarter, the largest exporters were France with a supply volume of $16.3 million, South Korea with $2.5 million, and New Zealand with $2.4 million.

The decline in exports to China continues the trend from last year. By the end of 2025, Russian ice cream deliveries to this market decreased by 15% to $2.3 million from $2.7 million in 2024. Moreover, the supplies were irregular: purchases were also absent in September and December.

At the same time, globally, Russian ice cream exports are showing growth. According to the Agroexport Center, in 2025, the total supply volume reached $76 million, increasing by 31% in value terms. In physical terms, exports grew by 13.8% to 17,300 tons.

Despite the current challenges in the Chinese direction, the industry maintains long-term growth expectations. According to forecasts, by 2030, Russian ice cream exports could exceed $100 million, although achieving these figures will require market diversification and strengthening competitive positions in key areas.