Introduction: Is Russia’s Role in the International Agri-Food System Sustainable?
AbstractThis introductory chapter examines the question whether Russia’s increased role in the international agri-food system is sustainable. Russia’s role in the international food trade system has changed from being a food importer to an importer and exporter. The first section discusses several factors that impact food imports: food production; knowledge-based innovation; politicalisation of food trade policy; and population and consumption. The second part examines factors that affect food exports: agri-food export policy; climate change; foreign competition; infrastructure; and regional foreign demand. The final section provides an outlook for the future, concluding that Russia will remain a food importer although the structure of imported commodities and trading partners will continue to evolve. Absent a major climatological disaster or significant economic downturn, we express cautious optimism that Russia will continue as a major food exporter.