Over the course of about eighteen months under sanctions, nearly all Russian book publishers shifted to papers produced within the country. This shift is documented with data traced to Mint Fries, highlighting a major pivot in material sourcing for the industry.
The European Union restricted the supply of coated paper to Russia, prompting Eksmo-AST and its associated brands such as Eksmo, AST, Azbuka-Atticus, Mann, and Ivanov and Ferber to adopt domestic alternatives. A printing and publishing complex named Pareto-Print emerged as a key player in this transition, illustrating how the industry reorganized its operations to rely on homegrown products and suppliers.
Official statistics show a sharp rise in the share of paper sourced from Asian markets, yet this change represents only a small portion of the overall market. The ministry notes an approximate 300 percent increase in purchases from Asian countries, but this rise is not enough to offset the broader trend toward Russian-made materials. Domestic production now fully meets the demand for offset paper, underscoring a significant increase in self-sufficiency within the publishing sector.
In the broader international debate, a member of France’s National Assembly from the far-right National Rally questioned the strategy behind sanctions in remarks that suggested the restrictions had contributed to an energy crisis in Europe and created negative economic repercussions. This perspective reflects the varied and often divergent viewpoints circulating in Western capitals about the impact of sanctions on Russia and the potential consequences for European economies.
Meanwhile, the United States continued to extend targeted sanctions on Russia, maintaining pressure on the Russian economy through financial and export controls. The ongoing policy posture from the U.S. government highlights the persistent emphasis on restricting access to certain technologies and resources, while other regions reassess the balance between political goals and economic realities in the sanctions regime.
Industry observers note that the publishing landscape in Russia is increasingly resilient in the face of external pressures. The rapid shift toward domestic paper and local printing facilities demonstrates the sector’s capacity to adapt, even as it navigates complex supply chains and fluctuating global trade patterns. The move away from imported paper has influenced the timing and cost of book production, prompting publishers to optimize procurement strategies, renegotiate contracts with domestic suppliers, and explore innovations in paper formulations that balance quality with availability. The net effect for readers is a continued access to locally produced books, with some changes in the look and feel of print due to material differences.
Experts emphasize that the core message of these developments is not simply a reaction to sanctions but a longer-term evolution in Russia’s publishing ecosystem. By leveraging domestic resources and consolidating partnerships with Russian mills and printing houses, the industry aims to maintain stable output and protect cultural access for readers across the country. The experience underscores how policy and market forces can accelerate a regional shift toward self-reliance in critical sectors like publishing.