In Russia, the issue of high-speed elevators in tall buildings has grown sharper as sanctions push foreign firms to retreat from the domestic market. This shift has left a gap in supply, particularly for the most advanced elevator systems that service skyscrapers, luxury residences, and major office complexes. Industry observers note that the shortage is felt not in every building, but in the projects that demand specialized shaft sizes and sophisticated technical features. These complex lifts, often custom designed for unique architectural needs, are mainly supplied by companies that have exited the Russian market, creating a ripple effect through developers and engineering firms alike.
Experts describe the situation as a bottleneck in the most demanding elevator typologies. The typical city high rise may require a combination of speed, safety systems, and precise shaft geometry that few standard products can deliver. Alexander Aleinikov, commercial director of Pridex construction company, explains that the current gap lies in custom products crafted to fit unusual shaft dimensions and particular technical requirements. The result is a slower procurement cycle, elevated project costs, and a degree of risk for developers who aim for transit-grade performance in prestige buildings. In essence, the market is transitioning away from generic solutions toward tailored installations that once again relied on European and other foreign manufacturers.
Market participants agree that there is a shortage of above-average-priced elevators suited for more private skyscraper projects rather than mass housing. As European and other Western suppliers exit, demand shifts to Russian manufacturers. This realignment prompts both opportunities and pressures for domestic producers to scale up capabilities, diversify supplier networks, and maintain strict quality controls. The evolving landscape underscores a need for strategic partnerships, local manufacturing investments, and accelerated project planning to keep high-end projects on schedule.
A representative of a Russian elevator factory points out that complete import substitution has not yet occurred in the sector. The reality remains that certain high-speed models require advanced technology and components that are not feasible to reproduce domestically in the near term. Substantial financial investments are needed to develop new production lines, testing facilities, and certification processes that meet international safety standards. Additionally, some critical components of Russian-made elevators are still sourced abroad, a factor that complicates the import substitution effort and can influence lead times, pricing, and after-sales service for clients commissioning new towers.
In related infrastructure updates, a separate governmental note from the Baltic region reflects evolving supply challenges in adjacent markets. For example, a declaration from Lithuania’s environment department highlighted a wood shortage in the republic. Officials indicated that Lithuania has traditionally depended on imports from neighboring states, including Belarus and Russia, but sanctions and shifting trade rules have disrupted these supply chains. The outcome has implications for construction material availability, timber prices, and the pace of building projects across the region, reinforcing how sanctions ripple through adjacent economies and impact planning, procurement, and on-site execution for developers and builders alike.