Analysis of potential limits on parallel imports of foreign computer gear in Russia
The Ministry of Industry and Trade, alongside Russian manufacturers of computer equipment, is evaluating the possibility of restricting parallel imports from more than two dozen foreign brands into Russia. The aim appears to be a tighter supply chain for devices sourced from abroad, potentially reducing access to products from major foreign brands such as Acer, Asus, MSI, and others, according to a report in Kommersant citing a source familiar with the discussions.
The initial concept originated within the ANO Computer Engineering consortium, which includes the ANO VT network and partners like Yadro, Aquarius, Kraftway, and additional players. There is also speculation that other global manufacturers, including Schneider Electric, Palo Alto Networks, and Delta Electronics, could fall under similar restrictions if the proposal advances and receives formal approval from Russian authorities.
According to the document, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, in collaboration with Russian computer equipment producers, is weighing a measure to limit the parallel import of products from more than 20 foreign brands into Russia, citing brands such as Acer, IBM, Dell, and others. This potential policy would target a broad spectrum of consumer and enterprise devices from popular international vendors.
In a memo, the Ministry of Economic Development reportedly recommends expanding the list of restricted names to include IBM, Dell, HP, Cisco, Hitachi, and other well-known foreign suppliers of computer technology and equipment. The suggested actions reflect a broader effort to encourage domestic alternatives and to align procurement with national strategic priorities for software and hardware availability.
As part of a broader government initiative, on June 1 a statement from Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin outlined discussions about a new framework that would require Russian entities to favor state-supported terms for the use of foreign software while a transition to Russian equivalents is underway. The policy envisions a staged approach that would balance the operational needs of businesses with the strategic goal of reducing dependence on foreign software during the transition period.
Industry observers note that any move to curb parallel imports would reverberate through enterprise IT, education, healthcare, and public sector procurement. The immediate effects could include shifts in pricing, supply resilience, and the availability of certain devices in official channels. While authorities emphasize safeguarding national software ecosystems and promoting domestic manufacturing capabilities, businesses are watching closely for concrete timelines, defined exceptions, and implementation safeguards that would minimize disruption to ongoing operations.