Lukashenko: Belarus, Russia’s Kaluga Oblast can reach $1bn in trade

“Fortunately, relations between us are developing quite well. But at one time we planned to achive $1 billion in trade. We are not reaching that level. We need to look for new directions,” the Belarusian leader emphasized. “The region has enormous potential. One billion, I think, is a reasonable figure for Belarus and Kaluga Oblast. We will aim for that.”

Speaking about Belarus’ capabilities, the president outlined areas that could help raise trade between Belarus and Kaluga Oblast to $1 billion. “I believe it is not only, and not primarily, ordinary trade, although that is also very important for us. We have already learned how to work in your region and are ready to build social facilities. And you are creating quite a lot of them in the region. We are ready to build and deliver these facilities on a turnkey basis so that the ‘face of Belarus’ can be clearly seen,” he assured.

The head of state also noted that Minsk is not a foreign city for the governor of Kaluga Oblast: during the Great Patriotic War, Vladislav Shapsha’s relatives fought here. “The efforts you make to protect historical memory and the truth about the Great Patriotic War are connected to your inner feelings and experiences. Your grandfather fought during the Great Patriotic War, defending our great Motherland. So consider that you have come to your own land,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

Last year, Belarus-Kaluga Oblast mutual trade amounted to $705 million. In January-May 2026, trade between Belarus and Kaluga Oblast reached $311.4 million, which was 17.4% more year-on-year. Belarusian exports mainly consisted of petroleum products, furniture and furniture parts, metal structures made of ferrous metals, seeds, resins and polyurethanes, and other goods.

Imports to Belarus from Kaluga Oblast were primarily animal feed products, ethylene and propylene polymers, fish fillets, aluminum wire, and other items.