EU-27 and Russia: basic statistical indicators and selected trade figures, 2000–2010

The Russian Federation was severely hit by the worldwide financial and economic crisis. Russian GDP experienced a noticeable drop between 2008 and 2009, but appeared to be recovering quickly in 2010. Russia remains a very important trade partner for the EU, especially with regards to energy supplies: 63% of the total value of EU-27 imports from Russia in 2010 consisted of oil, another 9% of gas. Furthermore, some EU countries rely heavily on Russian hard coal. Russia’s primary energy production has been increasing at a regular pace; a noticeable drop was only registered between 2008 and 2009, though not for crude oil. The industrial sector remains the main energy consumer. Efforts are being deployed to increase efficiency and reduce energy losses. This should also have positive effects on CO2 emissions.