Chinese brands hold over half of Russia's new-car market - Haval, Geely, Chery and Changan occupy most of the top ten. But 2025-2026 policy changes have reshaped the economics. This guide reflects the rules as of August 2026.
Conformity documents - depends on the import route
Depending on the import method and vehicle category, the vehicle may require an OTTS (type approval, typically for commercial imports of vehicles under 3 years) or SBKTS (single-vehicle certificate), an electronic vehicle passport (EPTS), and compliance with applicable ERA-GLONASS requirements. Russia does not apply one simple age ban to all vehicle imports - vehicle age affects the customs calculation and total import cost, which must be assessed for the specific import route.
The recycling fee - the number that decides your margin
The utilization (recycling) fee is the dominant cost item and must be calculated using the current coefficients under Government Resolution No. 1291 and its latest amendments. Since December 2025 the calculation combines engine displacement with a progressive power coefficient, and private importers of vehicles over 160 hp pay commercial rates; rates are indexed annually. Do not rely on historical figures - run the calculation for the specific vehicle (power, displacement, age, importer type, intended use) before ordering.
Taxes overview
| Item | Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Import duty | per vehicle | Calculated by importer type, vehicle age, customs value and engine displacement |
| VAT | 22% | Standard rate from January 1, 2026 |
| Recycling fee | per Resolution No. 1291 | Current coefficients: displacement x power factor, age and importer type |
| Excise | by horsepower | Progressive scale |
Routes from China
Sea: Nansha/Shenzhen/Shanghai to Vladivostok typically 10-15 days, then rail to Moscow (+7-10 days). Rail: block trains from Xi'an or Zhengzhou via Manzhouli reach Moscow in about 16-22 days. Road: via Manzhouli or Khorgos for smaller batches. Container and rail are the standard options. Routes and transit times vary with border capacity and carrier schedules - confirm per order.
Payment and compliance notes
Payment terms and shipping routes depend on banking compliance, sanctions screening, border capacity, and carrier availability - confirm the arrangement for each order. Most transactions run on full prepayment. Parallel imports of third-country brands remain active but carry secondary-sanctions risk.
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Official sources
Federal Tax Service - 2026 changes Government Resolution No. 1291 (recycling fee) Resolution No. 1713 amendments
Data reviewed August 2026 against official government sources. Regulations and tax rates change frequently - final eligibility and total cost must be confirmed per vehicle (VIN, age, displacement, energy type, importer status) with your customs broker. CBT Auto Export assists with export documentation from the China side on every order.