In 2022, the flow of used cars from Japan to Russia grew by 32 percent, reaching 213.5 thousand units, according to a representative from the Japan Used Car Exporters Association, known as JUMVEA.
The supply of used cars became the cornerstone of Japanese exports to the Russian Federation that year. Overall shipments declined by nearly 30 percent due to ongoing trade sanctions. This partially offset the losses caused by the suspension of new car imports and the halt of vehicle assembly by Japanese manufacturers within Russia.
What follows is a clear picture of market dynamics in the region. The sector reports that the demand for reliable pre owned models remains robust despite broader economic challenges. The focus has been on vehicles that can endure extended use with low maintenance costs, helping buyers maximize value amid currency fluctuations and port logistics efficiency.
The most popular models include large sport utility vehicles such as the Toyota Land Cruiser. An expert notes that Russians are increasingly attracted to these vehicles because they are typically in good technical condition, have low mileage, and benefit from efficient port handling at Vladivostok. In addition, the yen weakening against both the dollar and the euro has influenced purchasing power and overall pricing strategies for imports.
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[TAS]