The Russian government is weighing the introduction of a carbon fee as part of its climate policy. A deputy minister, Ilya Torosov, discussed the plan in an interview with RBC.
He argued that such a levy would help prevent capital from leaving the country, keeping environmental and decarbonization investments at home.
Torosov noted that Europe’s cross-border carbon regulation system will reach Russia through its so‑called friendly nations that adopt similar steps.
“So it would be strategically imprudent to assume this won’t affect us,” the deputy minister stressed.
He reminded readers that last October the European Union launched the cross-border carbon management mechanism known as CBAM. Beginning in 2026, importers of a range of goods, including metals, fertilizers, and electricity, will be charged for the CO2 emissions generated in their production.
“Why pay taxes to someone else’s budget when you can fund your own,” Torosov asked, suggesting that Russia could reinvest revenues in its own decarbonization efforts.
The deputy minister said discussions are ongoing with industry and government partners as part of shaping the policy framework.
Decarbonization rules are viewed as essential to meet the Paris Agreement goals, which aim to limit the rise in global temperatures. IMF estimates indicate potential Russian budget revenues from a carbon fee could reach around 4.3–4.4% of GDP by 2030, if implemented.
Earlier reports indicated that CO2 emissions had risen in 2023, reaching new high levels. At the same time, President Vladimir Putin had approved Russia’s climate doctrine, signaling a national framework for future environmental action.
Within North America, policymakers are watching these developments closely, considering the implications for energy markets, industry competitiveness, and provincial and state climate strategies across Canada and the United States. Analysts emphasize that national carbon policies and border adjustments can influence investment decisions, supply chains, and energy costs in North American markets as industries adapt to a rapidly changing global landscape.
Experts stress that while future measures may differ by jurisdiction, the overarching objective remains reducing emissions while maintaining economic resilience and energy reliability across North America and allied regions.