Auto-Suni, a speedily growing auto parts retailer based in Lappeenranta, Finland, has decided not to sell spare parts to customers in Russia. This stance aligns with directives from spare parts importers and manufacturers and reflects ongoing European Union sanctions on Russia. The decision also aims to prevent bulk purchases and large orders that could be diverted for resale. The policy is echoed in Finnish business reporting, underscoring the importance of monitoring trade flows in times of sanctions and heightened regulatory scrutiny.
The policy centers on customers seeking substantial quantities of components. Antti Myakitalo, Auto-Suni’s maintenance director, noted that sanctions and supply disruptions have long contributed to a shortage of spare parts in Russia. This shortage has persisted since sanctions began, affecting the availability of commonly used car parts for repair and maintenance. The company emphasizes that its sales are limited to specific, verifiable customers who use the parts for legitimate vehicle repair needs within its contracted framework.
Auto-Suni does not sell spare parts to buyers who intend to resell them. Contracts explicitly forbid such use. Sales are restricted to contracted repair shops and Finnish private customers who use the parts for their own vehicles. The policy remains clear and consistent with the aim of preventing sanctions circumvention and maintaining compliance with international trade rules.
For example, an order of 15 oil filters clearly signals resale intent, and in such cases the parts are directed to dealers rather than individual car owners, according to Myakitalo. This approach helps ensure that parts flow stays aligned with authorized channels and reduces the risk of sanctions breaches. Auto-Suni actively monitors order patterns and relies on established procurement agreements to identify and deter inappropriate requests.
The store’s suppliers are European car manufacturers that have restricted or suspended supplies to Russia. As a result, some Russian buyers have attempted to source parts indirectly to circumvent sanctions. While these attempts have been infrequent, there has been a noticeable decline in Russian demand over time. Auto-Suni maintains that if a spare part is exported under any circumstances, it will not be sold. From a business perspective, these losses are manageable and do not threaten operations, according to Myakitalo.
Myakitalo did not comment on the policies of other local retailers or the broader market environment in the region. The company continues to prioritize compliance, transparency, and ethical trade practices while serving its core customer base in Finland and neighboring markets. The situation highlights how sanctions and supplier restrictions shape regional supply chains and influence daily business decisions for automotive parts retailers across Europe and neighboring regions.