Parallel imports to Russia amount to $8.7 billion in January-May 2026

Lead

MOSCOW — Russia's parallel imports amounted to $8.7 billion in the first five months of 2026, according to Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Roman Chekushov, speaking on the sidelines of the Russian Retail Week forum on June 24. The figure represents a stabilization of imports brought in through this mechanism, which allows Russian companies to import goods without the trademark owner's permission.

Chekushov told reporters that May 2026 alone saw about $2.3 billion in parallel imports. On average, monthly volumes have hovered around $1.7 billion, he said.

Coverage Comparison

This report is based on statements made by Chekushov, which were covered by TASS, Russia's state news agency. The first TASS report focused on the parallel import figures, while a second report highlighted broader export data from the same official. Both articles quote Chekushov directly, with the second emphasizing positive progress toward government export targets.

No independent sources or alternative perspectives were included in the provided coverage. The information originates solely from the deputy minister's remarks, as reported by TASS.

Key Claims

• Parallel imports volume: January-May 2026 parallel imports reached $8.7 billion, with May contributing $2.3 billion. The monthly average is about $1.7 billion. (Per TASS, quoting Chekushov.)
• Stabilization trend: Chekushov stated that the volume of parallel imports has stabilized, fluctuating between $1.5 billion and $2 billion per month this year, and that the government does not intend to influence these levels. (Per TASS.)
• No targets for parallel imports: The deputy minister emphasized that there are no official targets for the volume of parallel imports, neither to reduce nor to increase them. (Per TASS.)
• Non-resource non-energy exports: In the same five-month period, Russia's non-resource non-energy exports reached $66.5 billion, approaching the six-month target of $69.4 billion. (Per TASS, quoting Chekushov.)
• Annual export target: The target for non-resource non-energy exports for the year is $155 billion, and the Ministry of Industry and Trade predicts it will be met. (Per TASS.)

Perspectives

• Russian government view: The statements from Deputy Minister Chekushov project an image of stable trade flows and positive progress toward export targets. The absence of targets for parallel imports suggests a pragmatic acceptance of current levels, which have emerged as a response to Western sanctions.

Analysis

The parallel import mechanism was legalized in Russia in 2022 as a response to sanctions and the withdrawal of many foreign companies. It allows the import of goods without the brand owner's consent. The stabilization of parallel imports at around $1.7-2.0 billion per month indicates that the mechanism has become an established part of Russia's trade landscape.

Chekushov's remarks suggest that while the government does not actively manage parallel imports, it acknowledges their role in maintaining supply of consumer goods. The data on non-resource non-energy exports, which excludes commodities like oil and gas, shows that Russia is making progress toward its economic diversification goals, though it remains heavily dependent on energy exports overall.

It is important to note that these figures are preliminary and may be adjusted. The claims are single-source, coming from Chekushov via TASS, and have not been independently verified by other outlets or international bodies.