According to The Wall Street Journal, in 2023, Russia doubled its import of nitrocellulose, which is used in manufacturing gunpowder and rocket fuel, even amidst sanctions. By mid-2023, the import volume of this substance exceeded the 2021 level by almost twofold, amounting to 3039 tons.
Reportedly, among the companies supplying raw materials for gunpowder to Russia are not only Chinese but also American, German, and Turkish enterprises. Specifically, over half of the substance’s shipments since the beginning of the conflict are attributed to the Turkish company Noy Iç Ve Dişticaret.
The situation in the market of explosive substances has sparked both concern and interest among international observers and experts. Why is Russia, under the pressure of sanctions, increasing its import of explosive substances, especially from the territory of the United States?
One possible explanation is strategic planning and the search for alternative sources of supply. Facing restrictions and sanctions, Russia may be seeking new sources of raw materials for strategic sectors such as the military-industrial complex.
It is also possible that the increase in the import of explosive substances is a result of domestic market demand. For example, with the escalation of the conflict in Donbas and other regions, demand for military equipment and ammunition may rise, prompting Russia to increase imports of the corresponding raw materials.
Regardless of the reasons, Russia’s increase in the import of explosive substances attracts attention not only from experts in the defense industry but also from political analysts, as it may have further geopolitical implications.
Taking these factors into account, international observers will continue to closely monitor the dynamics of explosive substance imports to Russia and analyze the possible consequences of this process both domestically and internationally.