Historically, imported vehicles tended to arrive in the country through corporate channels. Official distributors representing foreign brands usually handled the process. Today, individual buyers are increasingly taking the lead, reshaping how cars enter the market.
To confirm safety and compliance with EAEU technical regulations, a range of documents is issued for imported cars. These documents ensure that vehicles meet mandatory standards and that their specifications align with regional requirements for road safety and environmental performance.
Previously, a note about this topic might have been attributed to a person who holds foreign-agent status in the Russian Federation. The landscape has since evolved, and the pathways for certification have become more nuanced.
Several brands faced difficulties obtaining a standard TS type approval (OTTS) in 2022. OTTS could only be issued with the permission of a copyright holder. In response, the Council of Ministers introduced simplifications that broadened who can obtain certification. Private individuals gained the ability to obtain a design safety certificate (SBKTS), while a legal entity could issue a conclusion on the assessment of single-car vehicles (ZOETS).
SBKTS is available through many laboratories, whereas ZOETS remains issued by the relevant state authority. These changes have made the process of acquiring and importing cars more accessible to private buyers, reducing some of the barriers that previously existed for individual entrants.
Industry observers note that these shifts can create parallel import channels and may influence tax autarky and regulatory oversight. Dealers sometimes find that private imports streamline customs clearance and reduce costs, which can impact market dynamics and taxation patterns in the long run.
From another vantage point, importing cars through private citizens remains legal provided customs laws are followed. In this context, the definition of a “car dealership” under national legislation may not be as clear-cut as in other jurisdictions, which can add a layer of complexity for buyers and sellers alike.
One practical concern for purchasers is the SBKTS recall process. Regulatory bodies regularly monitor accreditation laboratories. If a vehicle is found to fail testing in a given lab, the certificate can be withdrawn. However, it is possible to obtain the certificate again later from a different accredited facility, which underscores the importance of verifying the reliability and ongoing compliance of any issued certification.
- Drive can be read in Viber
In this evolving framework, purchasers and dealers alike should stay informed about current requirements, potential adjustments to certification pathways, and the consequences for market access and safety compliance. The balance between ease of entry and strict regulatory oversight remains a critical factor shaping how imported cars reach customers in the market today.