Russian Sugar Exports to Persia in 1900–1917

Abstract

This article examines problems of selling Russian sugar in Persia towards the end of the Russian Empire’s existence during the first decades of the 20th century. The article clarifies Russian sugar exporters’ achievements and what problems they faced promoting their products on the Persian market. The source base made it possible to establish the dynamics of export indicators, the specifics of the price situation, and consumers’ demands in Persia for this period. The author examines the peculiarities of the sale of Russian sugar in the northern and southern regions of the country and the competitive advantages of the two rival powers, Russia and France. Special attention is paid to the issue of sugar sales in Persia during World War I: problems faced by sugar exporters and the project to introduce a sugar monopoly in Persia. The analysis leads to conclusions about the dynamic development of Russian sugar exports to Persia. Thanks to the simultaneous efforts by the Russian government and Russian business circles, the Russian Empire was able to monopolize the North Persian sugar market and achieve certain gains in the markets of southern Persia. A decisive role in this matter was played by the government’s initiative, thanks to which a regular sea connection with the ports of the Persian Gulf was established, as well as the opportunity to sell Russian sugar at competitive prices. It is also important that government measures were carried out in parallel with the growing activity of Russian entrepreneurs, who were engaged in the production and export of sugar to the large Middle East market.