Russia’s Finance Ministry has sent to the government a package of draft laws providing for the phased introduction of VAT on goods imported into Russia through marketplaces, the ministry’s press service said.
The document proposes imposing VAT on e-commerce goods with the rate gradually rising to the standard level. It would be 7% in 2027, 14% in 2028, and 22% from 2029. Trading platforms would be responsible for paying the tax.
“This approach will allow organizations to continue developing in this area and at the same time will help level the competitive conditions with traditional retail,” officials said.
E-commerce goods are to be выделены into a separate category. In addition, an e-commerce operator will be created.
What goods would fall under the law? It concerns imported goods that consumers buy through marketplaces and other online platforms. For example, with delivery from China.
What do market participants think? Offline retailers oppose the phased rate increase. The Association of Retail Companies had earlier asked for a 22% VAT on cross-border internet trade to be introduced immediately from 2027 so as not to give foreign sellers extra time and “not aggravate the existing imbalance.” The Industry and Trade Ministry agrees with them. Marketplaces, meanwhile, support a gradual transition, saying it would allow businesses to adapt to the changes.
What should consumers prepare for? Higher prices for goods imported into the country through online platforms. At the same time, an Ozon representative told Vedomosti that purchases from abroad currently account for 3-4% of all online sales, while the remaining 96% are provided by Russian sellers.