President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that Russian companies are interested in opening up manufacturing plants across Africa as a way to get around Western sanctions.
“Our companies are simply interested in moving certain production operations to African countries. It’s a mutual interest,” Putin said during the second day of the 2026 Russia-Africa summit in Moscow.
“This fully aligns with Russia’s interests, especially given current circumstances, when scores of sanctions are placed on the Russian economy and businesses,” he told the representatives of 48 African nations, including 22 heads of state.
Putin did not say which Russian manufacturing firms were looking to set up shop in Africa, but boasted that they have “sufficiently high” investment potential.
“All that matters is that your decisions remain sovereign, your investments stay safe and secure, and everything functions regardless of the political climate,” the Russian leader said.
Putin touted the volume of Russian trade with African nations last year, which totaled $27 billion, or 2.4% less than in 2024. He also expressed confidence that trade could double to $50 billion in the “near future.”
The president has repeatedly vowed to double Russia’s trade with countries across Africa since at least 2019. Trade with the entire African continent accounts for just 3.9% of Russia’s total foreign commerce.
Russia’s influence in Africa is largely rooted in military cooperation and security deals. In Mali, for example, Russian mercenaries have supported the central government in clashes with Al-Qaeda-linked militants since 2021.
Analysts note that African countries leverage relations with Russia to balance Western and Chinese influence, while also raising concerns about Russia’s recruitment of its citizens to fight in Ukraine.
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