Budget funds should be directed toward strengthening Russia’s automotive sector, a position voiced by a State Duma spokesperson on a popular messaging channel. A survey was launched to gauge opinion on purchasing domestically produced vehicles for high-level government use.
The spokesperson asked the public, “Is it appropriate for executive bodies, lawmakers, budget institutions, and government agencies to buy cars made in Russia?” The question quickly drew attention from thousands of respondents.
In a short time, tens of thousands of votes were cast. Early results showed a strong majority favoring domestic car procurement. A substantial share supported the measure, while a small portion opposed it, and a few expressed indifference.
Previously, the spokesperson indicated that deputies should consider exclusive use of Russian-made vehicles such as Moskvich, Lada, and Aurus for official duties. The head of the State Duma also backed the Finance Ministry’s proposal to prepare for the possibility of supplying government departments with Russian cars.
This debate highlights a broader policy conversation about domestic industry support and the role of state procurement in shaping national capabilities. Proponents argue that buying homegrown products can bolster local manufacturing, preserve jobs, and reduce dependency on foreign supply chains. Critics, meanwhile, may point to cost considerations, vehicle availability, and performance concerns as factors to weigh before committing to a wide-ranging switch in government fleets. The outcome of the poll and the subsequent policy decisions may influence how state agencies approach procurement, industrial strategy, and the perceived alignment between public spending and domestic industry priorities. Attribution: Official statements from government officials and the published public survey results serve as the basis for the discussion. Further context from policy briefs and parliamentary debates is anticipated to shed light on implementation timelines, budget implications, and potential impact on the automotive sector’s competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.