Thailand Seeks Russian Urea Imports in Moscow Talks

Thailand is seeking to import 1 to 2 million tonnes of Russian urea (a highly concentrated, synthetic, solid nitrogen-release fertiliser) annually at preferential prices, following talks in Russia aimed at strengthening bilateral trade. The proposal includes forming a joint task force to accelerate cooperation and facilitate fertiliser exports as early as May 2026. The move is expected to help ease domestic farm costs and stabilise fertiliser supply.

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Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit met Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev and Deputy Agriculture Minister Maxim Markovich to discuss expanding trade ties. Bilateral trade between Thailand and Russia has grown to around US$1.6 billion in recent years, though both sides agree there is significant room for further growth, particularly in agriculture and food sectors.

During the discussions, Thailand requested a dedicated quota of granular urea, sized 2.5 to 5 millimetres, at what were described as friendly prices. If approved, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives will coordinate with the Russian Ambassador to Thailand to arrange business matching between private sector firms. The goal is to enable Russian fertiliser exports to Thailand by May 2026.

Suriya also proposed establishing a joint working group of Thai and Russian representatives to address outstanding trade issues and promote cooperation in academic and scientific fields. The group is expected to facilitate smoother trade flows and resolve pending matters within three months.

Patrushev confirmed Russia’s agreement to set up the working group and support long term bilateral trade growth. He noted that Russia produces both compound and nitrogen based fertilisers, including urea, and is ready to supply Thailand. Russian companies such as PhosAgro and UralChem have shown interest, particularly in entering long term contracts.

The Nation reported that he added that pricing details and product specifications would need to be finalised through direct discussions between private sector representatives from both countries. Evgeny Tomikhin, the Russian Ambassador to Thailand, will act as the Russian coordinator for the initiative.

Picture courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 16 Apr 2026