Discusses pricing formula and other fees, value-added tax (VAT), etc.
Last Published: 8/14/2019
Russian consumers are attracted to bargains but are increasingly able and willing to pay a premium for quality merchandise. U.S. companies exporting to Russia should be prepared to offer competitive prices for their goods, since there are inexpensive Russian products on the market, and strong competition from Asian and European companies. With a few exceptions, goods and services sold in Russia are subject to the value-added tax (VAT) of 20%, which is assessed on the cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value of an imported shipment, plus applicable duty. In addition, with strong local and third-country competition in many industry sectors, it is advisable to invest in advertising and brand promotion.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.