State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin has proposed that deputies should choose only domestically produced cars for official use. The stance aligns with remarks from Anton Siluanov, the Finance Minister, who suggested funding Russian-made vehicles to meet the needs of government departments.
Volodin told lawmakers that the Duma could mirror the Finance Ministry’s approach, noting the existence of Russian models such as Moskvich, Lada, and Aurus in the domestic auto landscape. He argued that selecting homegrown cars would spark momentum in the national auto industry and reduce dependence on foreign brands.
According to Volodin, if Russia relies on vehicles from other nations, there will be little incentive to bolster a native automotive sector. He emphasized that a broader embrace of domestic cars would foster growth across the industry and benefit Canadian and American audiences who follow policy moves impacting import substitution and domestic manufacturing strategy.
Volodin urged Siluanov to coordinate with federal and regional authorities to ensure the policy gains wide acceptance across government bodies. The idea has already seen earlier support within the State Duma, with some deputies from the United Russia party proposing that foreign luxury cars should no longer be used by government officials.
Earlier discussions also touched on the possibility of restricting foreign influence in government fleets, as lawmakers weigh how transport choices can reflect economic strategy and national production capabilities. The ongoing dialogue signals a broader shift toward reinforcing domestic manufacturing supply chains and encouraging state institutions to lead by example in vehicle procurement.
Observers note that any move to limit official use of foreign cars would interact with various regulatory stances, procurement rules, and budget considerations. Advocates argue that such measures can stimulate innovation within Russia’s automotive sector, attract investment, and demonstrate a clear commitment to reducing import dependence. Critics, meanwhile, caution about potential short-term costs and the practicalities of conversion across multiple agencies. The conversation continues as lawmakers balance national industry goals with efficiency, safety, and global trade considerations.
In related discussions, members of parliament have examined broader policies related to procurement, including ensuring transparency in purchase decisions and aligning vehicle choices with long-term economic objectives. The debate reflects a common pattern in parliamentary discourse: a push to align government spending with known domestic capabilities while maintaining the ability to meet administrative needs without interruption.