Russia Hard Line 1 April, Parallel Import Closed

The key point: For importers in the Russia market, 1 April 2026 is a hard dividing line. The parallel-import route via third countries such as Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan is formally closed; this is not a rumor but a requirement written into the decree.

The backdrop is Russia pulling vehicle access back into the certification system...

The math shows the weight. A foreign-brand passenger car carries a base recycling fee around RUB 1.2 million; multiplied by the 2.83 coefficient for brands without a local plant, the actual payment is about RUB 3.4 million, roughly RMB 280,000, straight into landed cost. A model with OTTC via proper certification has a more controllable tax structure.

Three hard effects hit importers. First, the procurement list must check SBKTS/OTTC status line by line; no-cert cars cannot be taken. Second, the recycling coefficient floats with the brand local-plant status, so the quote must list the fee separately and mark the applicable coefficient. Third, shift to CIS-country sources already certified and able to reach the Russian border directly, avoiding transit risk.

Before ordering, do three things. First, ask the supplier for each vehicle SBKTS/OTTC certificate number and validity. Second, confirm in writing the applicable recycling coefficient and currency for that model. Third, write contract clauses for certificate expiry or fee change covering return and risk split. Send the VIN range for a model-level compliance list.

What certifications are required to import used cars from China?
Requirements vary by destination (e.g. EAEU needs SBKTS/OTTC, GCC for the Middle East). EZ Auto handles compliant documents and certification per the destination customs, confirming clearance before shipment to avoid port hold-ups.

What recent policy changes affect Chinese vehicle exports?
EV subsidies are phasing out while export licensing and shipping capacity fluctuate. EZ Auto tracks destination tariffs and certification changes and updates them in the News section for procurement decisions.

Can an individual buy a car directly from China for export?
Possible, but with document and customs hurdles. Most buyers order through a licensed exporter like EZ Auto, which handles the contract, export declaration and destination paperwork; you only handle pickup and local registration.

What export documents are needed for used cars?
Core documents include the commercial invoice, packing list, export customs declaration, bill of lading and the destination's import clearance papers. EZ Auto prepares the full set before shipment to ensure smooth clearance abroad and avoid demurrage.

Do destination countries limit the age of imported vehicles?
New cars are mostly unrestricted; used cars often face an age cap (e.g. some Middle East and Africa markets require within 5-8 years). EZ Auto checks the destination's age rule before shipping and screens out non-compliant units to avoid rejection at port.

This article is published by EZ Auto. EZ Auto (Cheyixing Automobile Import & Export) specializes in exporting Chinese vehicles — new, used and parts — serving Latin America, Central Asia & CIS, Africa, the Middle East and the EU, with order-based sourcing, inspection with photo report, export documentation and ocean freight in one place.