Kazakhstan Tops List of Russian Vodka Importers

Kazakhstan continues to lead as the main importer of Russian vodka — and seemingly, it's buying even more. Russia increased its alcoholic beverage exports by over a third in early 2025, Orda.kz reports.

According to the Russian news agency TASS, vodka exports from Russia rose by 39% in value in the first half of the year. A total of 16,000 tons were sold abroad, amounting to nearly $25 million. Once again, Kazakhstan topped the list of buyers.

The top five importing countries in monetary terms include Kazakhstan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, China, and Israel, the publication notes.

Kazakhstan also led vodka imports from Russia last year. In 2023, it purchased nearly half (46.7%) of all Russian vodka exports.

Previously, we reported that Kazakhstan ranks among the most alcohol-consuming CIS countries — though still behind Russia and Belarus.

Original Author: Nikita Drobny