Russia began imports of crude oil from Iran under an oil-for-goods barter arrangement in November, Russia's Energy Minister said on Thursday.
Both countries had agreed the deal in May 2017, but it has only now come into effect.
Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said Russia facilitates the sale of 1 million barrels of Iranian oil via Russia to other countries.
Under the oil-for-goods barter agreement, 5 million barrels of oil per annum will be delivered from Iran to Russia.
Iran will use the exchange to buy steel, wheat and oil products from Russia under the agreement.
By Emre Gurkan Abay in Moscow
Writing By Gulsen Cagatay
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr