The Public Consumer Initiative, referred to as the OPI, calls for accountability from major European and international brands including Scania, Volvo, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, and Iveco. In its appeal to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the public prosecutor’s office, the initiative argues that the state should assume ownership stakes in these companies. The OPI frames the move as a step to protect consumers and stabilize the market amid a broader sanctions regime.
According to the OPI, Western automakers have halted operations in Russia to align with sanctions. The brands mentioned—Scania, Volvo, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, and Iveco—were among the most visible truck makers in Russia before the restrictions took hold, with many truck tractors and related transport equipment installed for use in the country’s logistics sector. This information is reported by Izvestia as part of the OPI’s briefing on the situation.
The public advocate notes that the suspension of service for vehicles already sold threatens user safety. He also points to rising prices for spare parts and for vehicles themselves, a consequence of disrupted supply lines that carriers must absorb or pass on through higher tariffs. These dynamics can influence the cost structure of logistics operations and affect service availability for customers who rely on timely deliveries.
Freight forwarders play a pivotal role in moving raw materials, machinery, and finished goods through the economy. When tariffs climb, the cost of transporting goods tends to rise, and the consequences ripple through the retail chain. The OPI emphasizes that such shifts contribute to consumer inflation and can reduce the overall purchasing power of Russian households.
In previously filed actions, the OPI has accused several major manufacturers, including Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, and Toyota engines, of violating the rights of Russian consumers. The ongoing legal efforts underscore the group’s broader aim to scrutinize corporate behavior that affects local buyers and users of automotive products.