REC held a meeting on confectionery export to the Middle East

The Russian national pavilion in Egypt continues to strengthen the position of domestic manufacturers in the Middle East and North Africa markets. The pavilion operator organized a meeting of chocolate manufacturer Bucheron (Inter Group) and a potential Yemeni export partner, Al-Ahlasi Corporation for International Trade. During the negotiations, the Yemeni side reviewed the product range and held a tasting of Buheron chocolate. The parties discussed not only the prospects for one-time deliveries of Russian confectionery products to countries in the Middle East and North Africa but also long-term cooperation, including the possibility of adapting the product line to the taste preferences of consumers in Yemen and neighboring countries. Logistics and transaction documentation were also discussed. Manufacturer's collaboration with the Russian National Pavilion began at the Food Africa 2025 exhibition in Cairo and continued at Prodexpo 2026 in Moscow. Following these meetings, Inter Group received resident status at the Russian National Pavilion in Egypt. As part of this collaboration, the pavilion operator continues to establish connections between Buheron and potential partners from Egypt and other Arab countries interested in premium chocolate products. According to research, the Middle East and North Africa chocolate and cocoa product market has reached $8.5 billion in value. It is expected to exceed $10 billion by 2035. Egypt is one of the top three buyers of such products, along with Turkey and Iran. These countries collectively account for over 60% of total regional consumption. The global premium chocolate market is also showing positive growth. It is projected to reach $40 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.7%. Experts believe that the key drivers will be rising disposable incomes in developing countries, as well as a shift in consumer preferences toward quality products. The Russian national pavilion in Egypt was created to support exporters and help domestic companies enter markets in the Middle East and North Africa by providing infrastructure and establishing business contacts with local partners. Russian Export Center (REC, VEB Group) is a government institution that supports non-resource, non-energy export. It provides companies from various industries with both financial and non-financial assistance at all stages of entering international markets, including as part of the International Cooperation and Export national project. Most services offered by the REC Group are available online on My Export state-run digital platform. Businesses have access to training on all aspects of export activities through the REC Export School, part of the Group. REC is also responsible for the key functions of supporting and implementing the Made in Russia program.