Arapova E.Ya.Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation arapova_katrin@mail.ru
Mudzhumdar A.A.Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation mujumdar.anita@gmail.com
Importance The article analyzes problems and opportunities of trade cooperation between Russia and India in terms of Russia's strategic interests. Objectives The research evaluates the trade potential for bilateral cooperation between Russia and India, identifies factors that boost and impede the development of bilateral trade. We also analyze the current trade policies, concerning import from Russia in particular. Methods The research is based on a systems approach and methods of logic and comparative analysis, expert assessment, quantitative and qualitative analysis of statistical data. Results We found key factors boosting and impeding a growth in trade between Russia and India, considering Russia's strategic interests. The article evaluates the current state and industrial structure of bilateral trade ties, and prospects for expanding the trade cooperation. Conclusions and Relevance In addition to general difficulties impeding the expansion of trade cooperation between the two countries, i.e. relatively high trade protectionism in India, drop in import demand, significant time and costs spent on foreign trade deals, we identified important and positive trends in bilateral trade. There we can mention a positive balance of trade for Russia, rather benevolent industrial structure of mutual trade, and growing demand for imported foods, which are positioned as strategically important for Russia, with Russia demonstrating certain competitive advantages for their production.
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