By takumihamano 
The gold trade in Russia has been a topic of significant interest and concern, particularly in light of recent geopolitical and economic developments. Here, we provide an overview of the latest news and key points related to Russia’s gold trade.
- Russia’s Strategic Partnership with Sahel States: Russia has formalized a multidimensional strategic partnership with the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) – Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This partnership includes increased trade and investment, which could potentially impact the gold trade as these countries are rich in mineral resources, including gold. The cooperation extends to civil nuclear energy and transport infrastructure, which may facilitate the movement and trade of gold and other minerals.
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Economic and Financial Model Reform in Niger: Niger’s banking sector fragility has necessitated economic and financial model reform. The West African Development Bank (BOAD) approved USD 82.5 million to recapitalize SONIBANK, a public bank in Niger. This financial stability could enhance Niger’s ability to trade gold and other resources more effectively, potentially influencing Russia’s gold trade dynamics in the region.
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Niger’s Mining Sector: Niger’s mining sector, which includes significant gold resources, contributed approximately 10 billion XOF to the public treasury in 2025. The country is focusing on operationalizing a local mining development fund and enhancing the value of quarry materials and precious stones. This development could lead to increased gold production and trade, impacting Russia’s interests in the region.
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Niger-Mali Mining Cooperation: The Nigerien and Malian Ministers of Mines visited the Geological and Mining Research Center (CRGM) in Niger to discuss mining policy and potential. Both countries are recovering from past difficulties and focusing on governance and production diversification. This cooperation could lead to increased gold production and trade, influencing Russia’s gold trade strategies.
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Niger’s Ambitious Energy Plans: Niger aims to become a major energy provider for the Sahel region, with projects like the Salkadamna Coal Complex. This energy development could support mining activities, including gold extraction, thereby impacting the gold trade. Russia’s involvement in the region’s energy sector could further intertwine with the gold trade.
In summary, Russia’s gold trade is influenced by its strategic partnerships, economic reforms, and mining sector developments in regions like the Sahel. The cooperation with Sahel States, financial stability in Niger, and ambitious energy projects all play a role in shaping the future of Russia’s gold trade. As these countries enhance their mining capabilities and infrastructure, the dynamics of gold trade are likely to evolve, with Russia positioned as a key player in this sector.