"In the past three years, our trade with Asia-Pacific countries has increased several times, and accounts for about 60% of Russia’s overall trade today," Novak told Russian Rossiya 24 broadcaster.
Russia would rather work with partners on competitive market terms rather than under sanctions pressure, he added.
"We are working with our friendly partners and redirecting our trade and economic ties toward countries that are actively developing today. Primarily, this is the Asia-Pacific region, Africa and Latin America," Novak said.
Russia’s trade with African nations has grown by about 10% this year, he said, adding that Russia is also actively engaging in trade with the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.