A shipment of 23 tonnes of malt extract is due to arrive in Vostochniy, a major port at the eastern end of the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia, in the next few days.

Coopers Brewing Products marketing manager Scott Harris said the malt extract that had been ordered was going to be used in the production of beer.

“The order was for a lighter colour of malt extract to suit the beer style required,” he said.

“We are hopeful this will develop as a long-term contract for Coopers.”

Malt extract is a natural flavouring and colouring additive, rich in protein and natural sugar. It is widely used in the food industry in biscuits, confectionery, breakfast cereals, malt beverages, dairy products, condiments and as a caramel substitute.

It is also used by craft breweries in the production of beer to ensure consistency of quality and to reduce initial set-up costs and space requirements.

Malt extract is formed when wort, the sweet liquid produced from malted barley, is evaporated and concentrated.

Harris said the Russian sale had been arranged through agents in Australia and was the first time Coopers had exported malt extract into that country.

“Russia is a huge potential market and we are hopeful we can build our business further in coming months,” he said.

Coopers is Australia's largest producer of malt extract and already exports to food producers in the USA, Canada, Japan, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Korea and India, as well as throughout Australia.