Introduction: A selective approach to parallel import
Since 2022, Russia has introduced a parallel import mechanism as a market-stabilizing measure. However, it is important to emphasize that Russia does not apply full international exhaustion of trademark rights.
Instead, the system operates as a selective (partial) parallel import regime. This means that parallel imports are permitted only for specific goods and brands included in an official list approved by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. For products not covered by this list, the trademark owner’s consent remains required, and unauthorized imports may still constitute infringement.
In practice, this creates a dual framework: some goods may be imported without restriction under IP law, while others remain fully protected. For companies, this distinction is highly relevant, as the scope of enforceable rights depends directly on whether a product is included in the list. Continuous monitoring is therefore essential.
The parallel import mechanism should also be viewed against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical and trade-related developments that have affected the availability of goods and supply chains. The framework is therefore not static and continues to evolve in response to these external factors.
Parallel import framework
Parallel import allows genuine goods to be imported into Russia without the trademark owner’s consent. However, this applies only to products included in the approved list, which is updated regularly and is currently expected to be revised every two months.
This mechanism should be seen as a targeted exception to trademark protection, rather than a general rule.
From a practical perspective, parallel import means that genuine branded goods may reach the Russian market outside the authorized distribution network. This can have several implications for companies. It often leads to reduced control over distribution channels, as well as pricing pressure and potential conflicts with authorized distributors. In addition, although the goods are genuine, they may not fully comply with local labeling, certification or warranty requirements, which can ultimately affect the brand’s reputation.
It is also important to distinguish between parallel imports and counterfeits: the former involve genuine goods, whereas the latter involve fake or unauthorized products. In practice, however, both types of goods are often available through the same sales channels, particularly online marketplaces, making enforcement more complex.
The partial nature of the Russian regime adds an additional layer of complexity. The legal situation may change as the list is updated, meaning companies may have strong enforcement options for some products but limited control over others. At the same time, removing products from the list may restore the rights holder’s ability to restrict imports.
Changes to the parallel import list (27 May 2026)
As part of this ongoing revision, significant changes took effect on 27 May 2026. More than 30 items have been removed from the parallel import list, indicating a gradual tightening of the regime.
The excluded products cover several categories. In the technology sector, the changes affect a broad range of computer equipment and components, including products from major manufacturers such as Acer, Asus, Cisco, Fujitsu, HP, IBM, Intel, Samsung, and Toshiba. Printing equipment is also impacted, with Ricoh ink and devices being removed from the list.
In addition, certain consumer goods will no longer be eligible for parallel import, including Braun electric razors and Biorepair oral hygiene products. The list also no longer includes niche perfume brands such as Juliette has a Gun, Filippo Sorcinelli, MEMO Paris, Vilhelm Parfumerie, and Xerjoff.
Overall, these changes are expected to reduce parallel imports in the affected categories. From a legal perspective, removing products from the list generally restores the trademark owner’s control over importation and strengthens the basis for enforcement.
Market trends: continued growth in parallel imports
At the same time, market data shows that parallel imports remain an important and growing channel in certain sectors. According to Autostat, 53,500 new passenger cars were imported into Russia via parallel import between January and April 2026, representing a 94% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
The data also highlights how supply chains have adapted. More than 40% of imports are routed through Kyrgyzstan, while 36% come directly from China, both showing significant growth.
These figures demonstrate that, despite regulatory tightening in some sectors, parallel imports continue to play a significant role in the market. Supply chains remain flexible, and alternative routes are actively used.
Recommendations for IP owners
Against this background, rights holders should adopt a proactive, structured approach. It is particularly important to monitor whether products are included in the parallel import list, as this directly determines the available enforcement options. If products are not included in the list or have been removed, trademark owners may rely more fully on their exclusive rights to restrict unauthorized imports.
One effective tool is recording trademarks in the Customs Register of Intellectual Property Rights. It is also advisable to secure trademark protection in neighboring jurisdictions, such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Georgia, particularly given their role as common transit or parallel import routes.
In practical terms, companies may wish to consider the following steps:
• regularly check whether their products are included on the parallel import list
• strengthen customs protection and ensure trademark coverage in key regions
• monitor online marketplaces and look for repeat sellers or suspicious patterns
• make use of platform-specific enforcement tools and prepare standard complaint materials in advance
• clearly distinguish between cases involving parallel imports and counterfeits when taking action
• keep records of repeated infringements and escalate where appropriate
A structured and consistent approach is essential for effective enforcement.
Counterfeits and the role of marketplaces
Parallel import is closely linked to online marketplaces, which remain the primary channels for both parallel imports and counterfeit goods. The most relevant platforms include Ozon, Wildberries, and Yandex Market.
Traditionally, Russian courts treated these platforms as information intermediaries, meaning they acted only after receiving complaints from rights holders.
Current practical challenges
The “black market” turnover remains significantly concentrated in a limited number of sectors. Approximately 75% is attributable to three industries:
- Automotive goods – 44%
- Light industry – 23%
- Food products – 9%
Consumer surveys indicate that counterfeiting is widespread: approximately 40% of shoppers report encountering counterfeit clothing and accessories.
Recent marketplace data further illustrates the scale of the issue. In December 2024, sales of goods bearing well-known luxury brands on two Russian marketplaces—where the manufacturer was not properly identified—reached significant levels. For example: Prada (RUB 7.6 million), Dior (RUB 15.8 million), Dolce & Gabbana (RUB 4.5 million), Gucci (RUB 7.5 million), Versace (RUB 6.7 million), Converse (RUB 27.7 million), and Louis Vuitton (RUB 8.9 million).
Despite certain improvements in enforcement and platform practices, several practical challenges persist.
First, parallel-imported goods and counterfeit products frequently coexist within the same product categories, and in some cases even within the same listings. This significantly complicates the assessment of whether a particular offer is lawful.
Second, the seller landscape is highly fragmented. Many sellers operate on a small scale and/or for limited periods, which complicates enforcement and reduces the effectiveness of follow-up actions. Even when infringing listings are removed, similar products often reappear quickly under new seller accounts or slightly modified descriptions.
Finally, additional challenges arise from sellers’ documentation and the structure of cross-border supply chains. Documentation is often incomplete or unreliable, and supply chains may involve multiple jurisdictions and intermediaries, further complicating traceability and enforcement.
New marketplace rules (April 2026)
This approach is now changing. Since April 2026, marketplaces have been given greater responsibility for intellectual property enforcement through direct access to Rospatent databases.
This development enables platforms to verify goods at the listing stage, rather than only reacting after complaints.
In practice, when a seller uploads a product listing, the platform automatically checks the data against Rospatent records. If a protected right is identified, the system may issue a warning or block the listing. Authorized sellers can provide supporting documentation to have such restrictions lifted.
This represents a shift towards more proactive enforcement and may lead to faster removal of unauthorized listings.
Upcoming marketplace reform (October 2026)
These developments are part of a broader reform, with a new Federal Law on the Platform Economy set to enter into force in October 2026. The reform will introduce mandatory platform registration, increased tax transparency, fairer commercial terms for sellers, and formal complaint mechanisms.
Taken together, these measures aim to reduce counterfeit goods and improve transparency in e-commerce.
Conclusion
The Russian system for parallel imports is gradually becoming more structured and selective. Fewer products are allowed under the regime, and marketplaces are taking on more responsibility. Together, these changes are making it easier for rights holders to take action when needed.
At the same time, the system is still complex. Whether a product is allowed or infringing depends on the specific product listing, and in practice, marketplaces continue to create challenges for enforcement.
Despite recent improvements, it remains important for IP owners to stay actively involved. This means regularly monitoring both legal developments and online marketplaces and acting quickly and consistently when issues arise to maintain control over their brands and market presence.