The Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation has expanded the list of brands whose vehicles can be imported via parallel import channels, according to a disclosure shared by industry sources with RIA Novosti. The updated roster now includes Renault, Ford, Kia, Mazda, Hyundai, Genesis, Dacia, Citroen, Mazda appears again, Opel, Peugeot, and Isuzu. A formal document reflecting these changes has been forwarded to the Ministry of Justice for approval, signaling a move to streamline access to foreign-built cars through alternative supply routes. This development comes as part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the local market and ensure a steady flow of popular models amid supply disruptions and currency volatility, with the update framed as a policy measure to broaden consumer choices and support dealers. Cited from RIA Novosti.
Since May of the previous year, the list has already accommodated more than 30 brands, including Land Rover, Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, BMW, Mini, Volkswagen, Skoda, Audi, Toyota, Lexus, Subaru, Suzuki, Honda, Infiniti, Nissan, and Bugatti. This extension reflects a persistent government and industry push to keep the Russian automotive market supplied through parallel channels, particularly in the mass-market segment where demand remains strong. The inclusion of these brands is part of a broader strategy to mitigate shortages and maintain price competitiveness for imported models that customers seek across urban and regional markets. Cited from RIA Novosti.
Industry associations such as the Russian Auto Dealers group have publicly supported expanding the parallel import list, arguing that a broader brand mix would alleviate deficits in the mass segment and help stabilize pricing. Proponents emphasize that parallel import channels can act as a bridge during periods when traditional import routes face bottlenecks, thus supporting both retailers and buyers who are seeking timely access to foreign-name vehicles. The advocacy aligns with the government’s objective to sustain consumer access to a wider array of popular models while market conditions normalize. Cited from RIA Novosti.
Historically, Russia has seen a notable rise in the importation of used vehicles as market conditions shift. Early 2023 figures showed a sharp increase in used-car imports relative to the previous year, a trend analysts say has continued into the mid-year period as parallel import channels gain traction. Parallel import, defined as the purchase of goods from alternative supply lines rather than through the traditional authorized distributors, was legalized in Russia at the end of March 2022 to meet consumer demand for foreign products. The policy change aimed to provide consumers with more options while the domestic supply chain adapts to broader international sourcing. Cited from RIA Novosti.