In 2022, the Federal Customs Service of the Russian Federation reported a continued focus on controlling the import of smartphones to ensure compliance with customs laws. Data collected by the agency indicates that devices entering Russia without proper clearance most often originated from the United Arab Emirates, Finland, and China. In connection with these interceptions, three criminal cases were initiated. These findings were communicated by DEA News.
Officials from the Federal Customs Service noted that the bulk of illicit smartphone imports traced to shipments from the United Arab Emirates, Finland, and China. The statement also highlighted that the highest incidence of offenses occurred in the territory covered by the North-West Customs Administration and the Sheremetyevo area, where border controls and customs checkpoints are heavily concentrated.
According to the agency, 2022 saw Russia’s customs authorities open three criminal cases linked to the illegal import of smartphones. By comparison, 2021 recorded six criminal cases of this nature. With respect to unpaid duties, the total amount reported for 2022 was 30.3 million rubles, marginally lower than 33.6 million rubles in 2021, reflecting fluctuations in the value and volume of shipments that slip through the system.
Additionally, the agency disclosed that 92 administrative offense cases related to smartphones were filed in 2022, while 41 such cases were recorded in 2021. These figures underscore a persistent emphasis on enforcing regulatory standards around consumer electronics and the proper assessment of duties and compliance across border points.
Earlier, the Federal Customs Service reported a significant crackdown on attempts by individuals to illegally export cash — including rubles, US dollars, and euros — abroad. The total number of attempts stopped in the previous year reached 11,670, marking a 24 percent increase relative to 2021. This surge reflects heightened enforcement efforts across currency controls and export restrictions, reinforcing the agency’s broader objective of maintaining financial and regulatory integrity in cross-border trade.