Since October 11, Russia has begun direct grain supply to 13 countries, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia, in an effort to strengthen its global market position and reduce reliance on foreign intermediaries. The Union of Grain Exporters of Russia and the Russian Ministry of Agriculture are spearheading this initiative, which will preferentially trade with government and state buyers, excluding foreign companies without long-term contracts. This move comes as Russia's wheat exports hit record levels, reaching 5.4 Mt in October, thanks to increased global demand and prices. This strategic pivot aims to secure Russia's role as a major grain supplier on the global stage.