Over the past six months, imports of Japanese cars into Russia have surged, with more than 120,000 right-hand drive vehicles arriving since the start of the year. This trend reflects growing demand and shifting supply dynamics in the regional market, where dealers and private buyers alike are weighing cost, availability, and transport logistics.
During a recent visit to the Green Corner car market in Vladivostok, shoppers encountered highly competitive prices that attracted many buyers. These figures already factor in reseller margins, typically adding around 200 thousand rubles per vehicle, making direct-from-Japan deals even more appealing for cost-conscious buyers who want the best value per kilometer.
Direct purchases from Japan can deliver even lower prices. For example, a 2020 Nissan Leaf in the top e+G configuration with a 62 kWh battery can be priced around 2 million rubles after completing all customs procedures. A Leaf with a 40 kWh battery, also from 2020, remains more affordable, just over 1.5 million rubles in some cases.
Similarly, a 2020 all-wheel drive Toyota Corolla Fielder with about 50 thousand kilometers on the clock is listed in Japan for around one million rubles. That price often includes sea freight to Vladivostok, illustrating the cost advantage of importing directly from Japan when compared with local-market purchases later in the supply chain.
What’s new?
Previously, buying a right-hand drive vehicle remotely and importing it into Russia was possible but becoming more regulated. As of November 1, 2022, the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation issued Order No. 121n, which expands the competence of customs posts and clarifies how imports are processed. This change affects the Far East region most profoundly, including Vladivostok, by expanding the scope of customs clearance for private cars.
Some readers might wonder about the impact of this expansion. The short answer: details matter. The practical effect is that procedures can become more involved for non-residents, especially when handling imports through regional ports.
Where’s the catch?
Earlier, a non-resident of the Far East could purchase a vehicle in Vladivostok and clear customs with a certified copy of a passport sent by mail to an intermediary. That approach has changed. Importing a car through the Vladivostok seaport now often requires the importer to be personally present for customs, particularly when documentation and travel details must be verified in person.
Notably, for non-residents, customs officers may request passport copies along with travel tickets and hotel information. This shift means a more hands-on process for some buyers, potentially slowing the on-ground steps of vehicle clearance.
Is there an alternative?
For buyers located far from Vladivostok, such as those in central regions, an option exists to authorize a local customs representative through a notarized power of attorney. This document can be mailed to a trusted agent who will handle the clearance on the buyer’s behalf. In regions within the Far Eastern Federal District, presenting a passport copy may suffice to move the process along, reducing the need for in-person visits in Vladivostok.
The register procedure for a vehicle imported from Japan remains consistent: a private individual or a customs representative must complete a passenger declaration (PTD), document the vehicle details, and pay customs duties. This pathway continues to be the standard route for private importation, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with regulations.
What’s next?
With strong price points and robust availability, imports of right-hand drive cars from Japan are likely to rise further. In a market with tens of millions of vehicles, the ongoing demand for new supply reflects a broader challenge: domestic production faced a significant decline in the recent period, creating a gap that imports can help bridge. Japanese cars offer a practical solution for drivers seeking affordable options, reliable performance, and a wider selection than what might currently be available locally.
In a broader context, vehicle supply volatility underscores the importance of understanding import rules, registration requirements, and the logistics of cross-border vehicle ownership. For many buyers, the decision to import hinges on translating price advantages into real ownership, complete with duties, paperwork, and timely delivery.
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A note: the accompanying image credits an author for visual context.