Russia’s Online Market Size Expands Rapidly, Driven by Small Vendors
Over the last three years, Russia has witnessed a dramatic surge in online commerce. Industry observers note that the number of online stores has grown sevenfold, a trend highlighted by the Federal Society for Network Commerce and Trade (FOST) as reported to RIA Novosti. This surge reflects a broader shift in consumer shopping online and the increasing ease with which small businesses can reach customers beyond traditional storefronts.
Today, more than 44 thousand individual entrepreneurs are registered in the e-commerce sector, a sixfold increase from 2021. The rise is not limited to sole proprietors; the number of legal entities involved in online trade has tripled, totaling around 3.9 thousand. An additional indicator of activity is the vibrant community of sellers online, with more than one million individuals participating in some form of online selling. These figures collectively illustrate a thriving ecosystem that supports both micro-enterprises and growing online brands.
The sector began showing momentum in 2022, and the growth trajectory remains firmly in place. FOST notes that the positive dynamics continue, signaling that online commerce is here to stay as a central channel for retail in Russia.
Additionally, the industry voice has emphasized that the landscape includes a wide spectrum of participants. Evgenia Chernitskaya, head of the association, underscored that about 50 thousand entrepreneurs are officially engaged in online business in Russia. She stressed that this does not mean large platforms alone, but a substantial presence of small online stores contributing to the overall market vitality.
Earlier, the Stationery Market Association raised concerns about competition dynamics, pointing to perceived unfair practices in marketplaces. This debate reflects ongoing conversations about fair competition, platform rules, and how different players—ranging from tiny shops to larger marketplaces—navigate the online retail environment.
Beyond the numbers, analysts are also looking at what Russians buy most online. The data paints a picture of consumer preferences shaping inventory, logistics, and marketing strategies across the market. Looking ahead, experts expect continued expansion as digital payment adoption strengthens, logistics networks mature, and more entrepreneurs experiment with branding and differentiated offerings.
In summary, the Russian e-commerce scene shows a robust rise in storefronts and business registrations, with a strong push from both individual sellers and small companies. The landscape is evolving quickly, with market participants adapting to regulatory developments, consumer demand, and competitive pressures. The ongoing dialogue among industry groups signals a future where online shopping remains a central component of retail life in the country.
Note: Figures and statements above are drawn from industry sources and published reports. Attribution to the Federal Society for Network Commerce and Trade (FOST) and related associations is provided for context and does not imply endorsement beyond the data cited.