Guide

How Foreign Companies Can Enter the Russian Market

A practical guide to choosing the right entry model: distributor, importer, retail partner, marketplace, local stock or representative desk.

Executive summary

A practical guide to choosing the right entry model: distributor, importer, retail partner, marketplace, local stock or representative desk. The right approach is to define the buyer, route, documents, partner model and transaction workflow before committing to large spending or long-term exclusivity.

What to clarify first

  • Product category, HS code and technical documentation.
  • Target buyer: importer, distributor, retail chain, marketplace, industrial client or project buyer.
  • Import, certification, labeling and compliance requirements.
  • Payment feasibility, contract structure and required supporting documents.
  • Local stock, delivery and after-sales expectations.

Recommended process

  • Run a product and market entry diagnostic.
  • Map the most relevant channels and target companies.
  • Prepare localized commercial materials and documents.
  • Contact and qualify potential partners.
  • Organize meetings and collect buyer feedback.
  • Check counterparties and plan the pilot transaction route.

Need a practical route?

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