Kazan: Russia is seeking to deepen economic cooperation with Malaysia and ASEAN economies through sectors such as machinery manufacturing, industrial development, agriculture, and halal industries at the 17th International Economic Forum 'Russia-Islamic World: KazanForum 2026' from May 12-17. Republic of Tatarstan's Investment Development Agency head Taliya Minullina said Malaysia remains among the participating countries at the forum, with Malaysian entities involved in several side events and business programmes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Chamber of Commerce is among the organisers of the forum's international fashion show segment, with Malaysia also participating in culinary-related events, including a chefs' competition. Taliya Minullina noted, "We have a big delegation from Malaysia," during a pre-forum briefing. The event was also attended by Tatarstan Culture Minister Irada Ayupova, the Strategic Vision Group 'Russia-Islamic World' deputy chairman Marat Gatin, and Directorate for Sports and Social Projects director-general Maksim Denisov.
Kazan, located more than 830 km from Moscow, is the capital of the Tatarstan Republic and serves as an industrial, commercial, and cultural centre. Tatarstan, as of 2022, had a population of 3.9 million, with more than half being Muslims. It is home to more than 70 ethnic groups and over 150 halal product manufacturers, about 20 of which focus on exports. The republic's major exports include refined petroleum, crude petroleum, synthetic rubber, and nitrogen fertilisers.
Minullina highlighted Russia's interest in expanding economic ties with Malaysia, particularly in machinery manufacturing, industrial cooperation, and agriculture. In 2024, Russia was Malaysia's ninth-largest trading partner among European countries, with total trade reaching RM11.46 billion. Malaysia's key exports to Russia include electrical and electronic products, machinery, equipment and parts, and processed foods, while imports from Russia consist mainly of petroleum products, minerals, and chemical and chemical-based products.
Minullina also mentioned that ASEAN participation has become increasingly visible at KazanForum, as Tatarstan seeks to strengthen business linkages with Southeast Asia ahead of the ASEAN Summit in June this year. The republic is positioning itself as a strategic entry point for ASEAN businesses seeking access to the Russian market.
The KazanForum 2026 business programme encompasses sectors such as international cooperation, Islamic finance and investment, halal production, industry, transport, tourism, medicine, education, culture, sports, youth entrepreneurship, women's agenda, and media. Additionally, the forum includes a tourism-focused working group under the Malaysia-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, organised by Russia's Ministry of Economy. This year, the forum has attracted nearly 25,000 registered participants and serves as a key platform connecting Russia with Islamic economies across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.