Exporting goods from Russia has become more complex due to geopolitical changes, sanctions, and shifting trade routes. However, many businesses continue to export successfully by adapting to new regulations and finding alternative markets. Whether you’re a Russian company or an international trader, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the export process efficiently.
Step 1: Choose the Right Product for Export
Before starting, ensure your product is in demand and legally exportable. Some key Russian exports include:
- Energy (oil, gas, coal)
- Metals & Minerals (aluminum, nickel, steel)
- Agriculture (wheat, barley, sunflower oil, fertilizers)
- Timber & Wood Products
- Industrial Equipment & Machinery
⚠️ Check Restrictions: Some goods (e.g., high-tech equipment, military-related items) face export bans or sanctions. Verify with the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade and Federal Customs Service.
Step 2: Research Your Target Market
Due to Western sanctions, many Russian exporters are shifting focus to:
- China
- India
- Middle East (UAE, Türkiye, Iran)
- Africa (Egypt, Algeria, South Africa)
- Latin America (Brazil, Argentina)
- Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU: Kazakhstan, Belarus, etc.)
🔎 Key Considerations:
- Demand & Competition – Is there a market for your product?
- Trade Agreements – Does Russia have preferential trade terms with the country?
- Payment Risks – Can you secure safe payment methods?
Step 3: Register Your Business & Obtain Necessary Licenses
A. Business Registration
- If you’re a Russian company, ensure you’re registered with the Federal Tax Service (FTS).
- Foreign companies may need a local partner or distributor.
B. Export Licenses & Certificates
- Mandatory for restricted goods (e.g., dual-use items, military products, precious metals).
- Sanitary & Phytosanitary Certificates (for food, agriculture).
- Certificate of Origin (to prove goods are made in Russia).
📌 Where to Apply:
- Ministry of Industry and Trade (for export licenses)
- Rosselkhoznadzor (for agricultural exports)
- Chamber of Commerce and Industry (for certificates of origin)
Step 4: Find a Reliable Buyer & Negotiate Terms
Where to Find Buyers?
- B2B Marketplaces
- Trade Fairs: St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Russian Export Week
- Government Support: Russian Export Center (REC) helps connect exporters with foreign buyers.
Key Contract Terms:
✅ Incoterms (FOB, CIF, EXW – who handles shipping & risk?)
✅ Payment Method (Letters of Credit, Escrow, Cryptocurrency?)
✅ Delivery & Inspection Terms
⚠️ Sanctions Compliance: Ensure your buyer isn’t on a sanctions list (check OFAC, EU, UK sanctions lists).
Step 5: Arrange Logistics & Shipping
A. Choose a Shipping Method
- Sea Freight – Best for bulk goods (oil, grain, metals). Major ports: Novorossiysk, Vladivostok.
- Rail – Growing due to sanctions (China-Europe routes via Kazakhstan).
- Air Freight – Fast but expensive (suitable for high-value goods).
- Road Transport – For neighboring countries (Kazakhstan, Belarus, China).
B. Select a Freight Forwarder
Many global logistics companies have left Russia, but alternatives include:
- Russian Companies: Delko Group, FESCO, Globaltrans
- Asian Partners: COSCO Shipping (China), Simatech Shipping (UAE)
C. Prepare Customs Documentation
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
- Export Declaration (submitted via the Russian Customs E-System)
Step 6: Clear Customs & Export the Goods
- Submit documents to the Federal Customs Service (FCS).
- Pay any export duties (if applicable).
- Some goods require physical inspection.
- Once cleared, goods are shipped to the buyer.
Step 7: Receive Payment Safely
Due to banking restrictions, traditional SWIFT transfers may not work. Alternatives:
- Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, USDT, etc.)
- Third-Country Intermediaries (UAE, Türkiye, Hong Kong banks)
- Barter Trade (goods-for-goods exchange)
- Letters of Credit (L/C) via friendly banks (China, India)
Step 8: Post-Export Compliance & Follow-Up
- Keep records for 5 years (Russian tax law requirement).
- Monitor sanctions updates to avoid future issues.
- Consider government export support programs (e.g., subsidies from the Russian Export Center).
Conclusion
Exporting from Russia in 2025 requires careful planning, compliance with sanctions, and adaptation to new trade routes. By following these steps—choosing the right product, securing buyers, managing logistics, and ensuring safe payments—you can successfully export goods despite current challenges.