Attention Exporters to Russia: Russia Plans to Make Parallel Import Mechanism Permanent
Recently, Russian Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov stated that the government is planning to transform the "parallel import" mechanism from a temporary counter-sanction measure into a permanent policy. Initially introduced in March 2022 in response to Western sanctions, this mechanism allows Russia to import specific branded goods without the trademark owner's permission. It primarily covers categories such as electronics, home appliances, and mechanical equipment, aiming to ensure the supply of critical goods.
🔍 What is "Parallel Import"?
In short, it refers to importing genuine goods into a country without authorization from the rights holder. To counter sanctions, Russia amended its laws to no longer recognize intellectual property rights from certain countries, legalizing such import activities. For example, theoretically, relevant goods can be exported to Russia without the brand owner's authorization. When the mechanism was first implemented, the list covered approximately 200 brands and 50 product categories, including cosmetics, clothing, and vehicles. According to Russian data, parallel import goods can be up to 50% cheaper than those from regular channels. In 2025, the total import value through this channel was about $20.9 billion, which, although lower than in 2024, remains significant.
⚖️ Policy Details and Future Impact
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From Temporary to Permanent: Originally set with an expiration date extended to the end of 2026, the mechanism is now planned for permanence, providing businesses with more stable mid-to-long-term legal expectations.
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Dynamic List Adjustments: The list of goods allowed for import is maintained by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade and is subject to adjustments—goods may be removed from the list when domestic or friendly countries can provide alternative supplies.
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Internal Divergence: The Ministry of Economic Development supports making it permanent, while the Ministry of Industry and Trade views it as a temporary measure and continues to promote import substitution. This suggests the list's scope may gradually narrow rather than expand in the future.
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Implications for Traders: This requires exporters to possess greater market flexibility and insight, continuously monitoring changes to the list. In areas not yet covered by Russian supply chains, the mechanism will continue to provide opportunities for bilateral trade.
💡 Key Takeaway
For exporting enterprises, the permanent establishment of this mechanism brings stable expectations and specific trade opportunities but also comes with the uncertainty of dynamic list adjustments. It is advisable to closely monitor official Russian list updates and fully assess related intellectual property risks to achieve compliant trade.
