Customs regulations and import procedures in Russia
Foreign companies planning to import goods into Russia should be guided by the requirements of the Customs Code of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Russian legislation. Engaging with Russia’s Federal Customs Service (FCS) requires a clear understanding of procedure, proper document preparation, and adherence to deadlines. This guide will help you navigate the country’s import process and customs procedures.
Monthly import volumes to Russia, April 2024–April 2025 (USD billions)
Source: Central Bank of Russia, Trading Economics
Residents only
Evgeniy Nikiforov, founder of logistics company POLITEC and chair of the International Logistics Committee at the Association of Exporters and Importers, points out that the Russian customs authorities only deal with resident companies, making it impossible for foreign companies to have goods cleared through customs.
Indian companies have two options here: either establish a branch office in Russia that is registered as being involved in foreign economic activity, or partner with a local company that provides import services. “In either case, the resident company will be the official consignee in the contract, pay customs duties and state fees, handle the necessary certification, and transfer the legalised goods to the end consumer,” Nikiforov explains.
If a company hires a customs representative, the representative will assume responsibility for import operations.
When choosing a customs representative, we would advise you to check that the potential candidate is listed in the official state register of customs representatives. We would also recommend selecting a contractor with at least five years of experience in the relevant product and transport areas. Companies shortlisted for consideration should be invited to face-to-face meetings to discuss timelines, guarantees, and regional specifics.
The guide below is intended for companies that have decided to become residents in Russia and handle imports independently.
Sber is the largest bank in Russia and offers not only financial services but also advisory support for export and import operations.
Dealing with the Russian Federal Customs Service
To import goods, a company must register with the FCS as an entity involved in foreign economic activity (FEA). This is done by submitting an application to the customs authority and providing company details such as registered address, INN taxpayer identification number (if applicable), and information about the contract.
After registration, the company must:
Customs duties and taxes relating to the relevant FEACN code (Foreign Economic Activity Commodity Nomenclature) must be studied in advance. This can be done using the FCS online service.
See this article for a compilation of key practical tips for engaging with Russian businesses.
Import process for goods
The import process for goods involves several key stages:
Violating customs regulations can lead to serious consequences, including fines and confiscation of goods (for example, due to an incorrect FEACN code or undervaluation of the goods) and clearance delays (resulting from an incomplete documentation package or errors in the declaration). It is also essential to apply the correct VAT rate—either 20% or 10%, depending on the category of goods.