How are tariffs shaping the flow of Chinese cars into Russia?
Since many Western automakers left the Russian market in 2022, Chinese car brands have stepped in to fill the gap . However, as the influx of Chinese vehicles grows, so does scrutiny — especially around import tariffs and trade policies .
In this article, we’ll explore the current tariff structure on Chinese cars in Russia , how it affects imports and pricing, and what it means for consumers and manufacturers alike in 2025.
The Rise of Chinese Cars in Russia
Before diving into tariffs, it’s important to understand the scale of the shift:
- In 2023–2024, Chinese cars accounted for over 40% of new car sales in Russia .
- Brands like Chery, Geely, BYD, and Great Wall Motors dominate showrooms.
- With Western brands gone, China has become Russia’s top automotive supplier .
This rapid growth has prompted discussions about protecting domestic industries and regulating foreign imports , including the use of tariffs .
Current Tariff Policy: What Is Russia Charging on Chinese Cars?
As of 2025, Russia applies standard import tariffs on all foreign-made vehicles, including those from China:
| New Cars | 15–30% of CIF value |
| Used Cars | 20–40% + higher fees |
| Electric Vehicles | Same rates apply |
🔍 CIF Value : Stands for Cost, Insurance, and Freight — the total cost of the vehicle before tariffs.
These tariffs are applied in addition to VAT and excise taxes , which can push the final price up significantly.
Why Are Tariffs on Chinese Cars Increasing?
While Russia needs affordable cars, there are several reasons behind tighter tariff enforcement:
- 🛡️ Protecting Domestic Production : Russia wants to encourage local assembly and reduce full imports.
- 💰 Revenue Generation : Higher tariffs mean more income from imports.
- 📉 Market Control : Preventing oversupply and maintaining pricing stability.
In late 2024, the Russian government introduced temporary increased tariffs on some Chinese models to slow the flood of imports and give local assembly plants time to catch up.
How Do Tariffs Affect Prices in Russia?
The impact is direct:
- Higher import costs = higher retail prices for consumers.
- Some dealerships have raised prices by up to 10–15% to cover new tariffs.
- However, Chinese automakers are absorbing some costs to maintain competitiveness.
For example:
- A Chery Tiggo 7 Pro that used to cost ₽1.8 million may now be listed at ₽1.95 million due to tariffs and logistics.
Local Assembly as a Solution
To avoid high tariffs and stabilize prices, many Chinese automakers are investing in local production :
| Chery | Yes – multiple factories |
| Geely | Yes – expanding locally |
| BYD | Yes – growing EV production |
| Great Wall Motors | Partial assembly lines active |
Local assembly not only reduces tariffs but also improves delivery times, service support, and warranty coverage .
Trade Agreements and Future Outlook
Russia and China are discussing long-term trade agreements that could affect future tariff levels. While no major free-trade deal is in place yet, both countries are working toward closer economic ties.
Potential developments in 2025–2026 include:
- Negotiated reduced tariffs for electric and hybrid vehicles.
- More joint ventures between Russian and Chinese automakers.
- Continued growth of local manufacturing hubs in Russia.
Final Thoughts
Tariffs on Chinese cars in Russia are part of a broader strategy to balance market demand, local industry development, and trade policy . While they’ve led to slight price increases, the overall dominance of Chinese vehicles in Russia remains strong.
With local production expanding , and demand still high , Chinese automakers are adapting quickly — ensuring their continued success in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are tariffs on Chinese cars increasing in Russia?
A: Yes, Russia has temporarily increased tariffs on some imported models to control the volume of imports and protect local producers.
Q: How much are import tariffs on Chinese cars in Russia?
A: Import tariffs range from 15–30% of CIF value for new cars, depending on engine size and type.
Q: Are Chinese automakers building factories in Russia?
A: Yes, brands like Chery, Geely, and BYD are investing heavily in local assembly plants to avoid tariffs and improve supply.
Q: Do tariffs affect electric cars too?
A: Yes, current tariffs apply to all types of cars, including electric vehicles (EVs) , though future reductions are being discussed.