In a development that underscores the evolving landscape of product sourcing, the Russian retail chain M.Video has begun test purchases and sales within the framework of parallel imports for household appliances and electronics. A report from News citing a company spokesperson indicates the retailer is actively exploring additional channels to diversify supply and pricing, aiming to meet growing consumer demand from a market that has shown openness to alternative procurement paths. The move reflects broader industry trend in which large retailers assess non-traditional import routes to navigate sanctions, currency fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions while trying to maintain product availability for customers in Canada and the United States markets. [Citation: News report, company spokesperson]
Nevertheless, M.Video reportedly declined to acquire certain Apple-branded electronics through these parallel import avenues, citing technical and regulatory concerns. The representative stated that Apple devices sourced from other countries may not operate correctly within the Russian network, presenting significant risk to reliability and customer satisfaction. This caution highlights ongoing operational considerations for retailers as they balance access to popular brands with compatibility and warranty implications in markets with complex regulatory environments. [Citation: Company spokesperson]
The source also notes ongoing discussions with Iran. In that context, Apple has not officially authorized the sale of its branded electronics in Iran due to sanctions, yet the approval process has not been definitively halted. The situation illustrates how sanctions landscapes can influence cross-border commerce, prompting retailers to assess risk, timing, and local regulatory compliance when contemplating brand authorization and product eligibility in sensitive markets. [Citation: Market source]
According to the same source, Apple smartphones and other devices remain available through the network’s stores. The products in circulation are largely older deliveries procured before February 2022, frequently offered with discounts or installment plans. The retailer asserts it can satisfy current demand with existing stock while monitoring regulatory developments and consumer uptake across its store network. This reflects a staged approach where retailers leverage existing inventory to maintain customer access while awaiting clearer policy signals from manufacturers and regulators. [Citation: Supply chain report]
Ruslan Davydov, First Deputy Head of the Federal Customs Service, commented that Russia may consider broadening parallel imports to include a wider array of goods and brands in the future. He emphasized that end consumers have not suffered harm from parallel imports to date, and he rejected claims that legalization would lead to a surge in counterfeit products. In his view, parallel import involves bringing in similar or equivalent products, and the risk lies with counterfeit items themselves, not with legitimate parallel imports when properly regulated. The remarks point to a cautious but forward-looking stance from authorities as the market experiments with new sourcing routes and brand availability. [Citation: Federal Customs Service briefing]