A proposed recycling levy on imported electronics such as smartphones, laptops, and video cameras could be introduced in Russia by the end of 2024. This information comes from the Parliamentary Gazette, which cited conclusions from a roundtable hosted by the Federation Council’s Committee on Economic Policy. The discussion focused on how such a fee could be implemented and how it would impact both consumers and industry stakeholders.
The plan envisions operating the recycling collection for electronic devices on a model similar to the one used for automobiles. The central objective is twofold: to increase budgetary resources for domestic producers and to reduce the dominance of foreign sellers in the local market. If adopted, the policy would create a dedicated stream of funds that could be reinvested into advancing Russian technology sectors and supporting local manufacturers through incentives, subsidies, or public procurement programs.
The roundtable drew participation from key players in the technology and security sectors, including representatives from the Professional Video Surveillance Systems and Computer Technology sector consortiums, along with officials from the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation. Their presence underscored the government’s interest in aligning waste management rules with broader industrial policy aims and ensuring that the electronics supply chain can adapt to new regulatory requirements.
During the discussion, there was a clear push to apply protective measures or recycling collection obligations to products classified under five OKPD codes. Dmitry Klimov, head of the consortium Professional Video Surveillance and Radio Communications, highlighted the main product categories anticipated to fall under the scheme: portable computers and smartphones, tablet computers, video cameras, image recording and playback devices, and assembled printed circuit boards. The proposal suggests that these categories would be subject to recycling fees or mandatory take-back requirements, fostering a more circular approach to electronics in the domestic market.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade signaled strong interest in the initiative. If the policy moves forward, officials said they would support the consortiums’ suggestion to apply a branding approach to electronics labeling. The aim would be to promote transparency and consumer awareness through a system akin to the Honest Brand principle, which emphasizes clear information about product lifecycle, recyclability, and the environmental impact of devices. Such labeling could help shoppers make more informed choices while encouraging producers to design easier-to-recycle products.
As the discussion concluded, participants stressed that careful implementation would be essential. Attention would be needed on how retailers and importers handle the new fees, how funds are collected and disbursed, and how the program would interact with existing recycling infrastructure. The conversation also touched on potential exemptions, compliance costs for small businesses, and the need for clear, consistent guidelines to avoid market disruption. Overall, the roundtable framed the proposal as a proactive step toward a cleaner environment, a more resilient domestic electronics industry, and a fairer balance between local and foreign market participants. A timeline was proposed that would allow for pilot testing, stakeholder feedback, and phased rollout to ensure practical readiness across regions. The dialogue illustrated a readiness to adapt policy instruments to evolving technological trends while keeping consumer interests at the forefront. The topic remains under close watch by policymakers, industry groups, and consumer advocates alike, as Russia considers how best to modernize its waste management system for electronics while supporting homegrown innovation. (Source: Parliamentary Gazette)