Russia Considers Using Cryptocurrency in Grain Trade to Evade Western Sanctions

  • Russia’s exploration of cryptocurrency in grain trade marks a major step toward blockchain-driven global commerce amid sanctions.

  • Building on crypto-backed energy deals, the initiative strengthens BRICS efforts to create alternative financial systems outside U.S.-controlled infrastructure.


Building on developments reported by Crypto News Flash (CNF) in Russia Turns to Crypto for Oil Trade with India and China Amid Sanctions, Russia is now advancing plans to use cryptocurrency in grain trade settlements — a deeper shift toward blockchain-powered global commerce.

According to recent reports, on June 2, 2025, the Russian Agricultural Bank confirmed it is working with the Bank of Russia to assess digital asset payment systems — a notable expansion from prior crypto-backed oil deals.

This was also shared in a recent tweet by Bitcoin.com.News, noting that Russia is embracing crypto as the Russian Agricultural Bank explores cryptocurrency for grain settlements.

The decision is driven by ongoing Western sanctions that have restricted Russia’s access to the SWIFT network and dollar-based transactions.

By embracing cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins such as Tether, Moscow aims to bypass traditional financial choke points and maintain access to critical export markets.

Modeling Success from Energy Deals

This new grain trade strategy builds on Russia’s earlier successes using crypto in oil transactions, particularly with China and India. These countries have already trialed settlements in digital assets, setting a precedent for broader adoption.

The move also reflects a calculated step in Russia’s long-term plan to de-dollarize its trade relationships and reduce dependence on U.S.-controlled infrastructure.

President Vladimir Putin has called for a BRICS grain exchange supported by blockchain-based cross-border payment systems. With support from China and Brazil, this push aligns with the group’s wider effort to reshape global finance using alternative currencies and decentralized technologies.

Crypto Gains Real-World Momentum

As previously discussed in a CNF report, instead of holding Bitcoin as a reserve, the country is exploring ways to convert seized Bitcoin (BTC) into cash for state revenue.

Therefore, while implementation challenges remain — including regulation, tax policies, and legal frameworks — Russia’s crypto-powered grain trade could accelerate adoption of blockchain in global commodities. The approach is already influencing similar talks across the BRICS nations.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin (BTC) is priced at $106,325, up 0.83% in the past 24 hours and down 1.84% in the past week, according to CoinMarketCap. See BTC price chart below.


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Source: https://www.crypto-news-flash.com/russia-considers-using-cryptocurrency-in-grain-trade-to-evade-western-sanctions/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=russia-considers-using-cryptocurrency-in-grain-trade-to-evade-western-sanctions