Russia Halts Chinese Truck Imports Citing Safety Risks and Industry Crisis

Russian authorities announced on Wednesday a prohibition on the importation and sale of trucks from several prominent Chinese manufacturers, describing this action as a “direct threat” to public health and safety.

The ban specifically affects vehicles made by Dongfeng, Foton, FAW, and Sitrak, as stated by Rosstandart, the federal agency in charge of upholding technical regulations and vehicle safety norms.

Inspectors identified several problems, such as inadequate braking capabilities and defective seatbelt installations. Rosstandart has mandated that the manufacturers recall the impacted vehicles and cease their sales, warning them of potential fines for non-compliance.

Reports indicate that dealers have halted sales of the specified models and are developing safety compliance strategies that require the agency’s review and approval.

This decision comes at a time when Russia’s automotive sector is grappling with an escalating crisis. Recently, major domestic manufacturers KAMAZ, AvtoVAZ, and GAZ announced their intention to adopt a four-day workweek due to declining demand.

KAMAZ, a significant truck producer located in Tatarstan, has partially attributed its downturn to what it termed the “short-sighted policy of importers” who inundated the market with Chinese vehicles last year.

Russian car manufacturers are anticipated to advocate for further restrictions on foreign vehicle imports to protect local production.