Russian marketplaces have logistics centers in almost all CIS countries — deputy minister

Russian e-commerce giants are aggressively building out logistics infrastructure across the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and far beyond, signaling Moscow's deliberate pivot to new economic partnerships. Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Roman Chekushov highlighted this expansion, which sees major players like Ozon and Wildberries establishing extensive fulfillment centers and delivery hubs from Central Asia to Turkey, and eyeing further growth into Africa and the Global South. This strategic build-out is critical for Russia to sustain trade flows and circumvent Western sanctions. The current drive reflects Russia's urgent need to diversify its trade routes and partners amidst an increasingly complex global sanctions landscape. With the EU implementing its 20th sanctions package in early 2026, targeting digital rubles and crypto-asset providers, Russian marketplaces are leveraging CIS nations as vital transshipment points and growth markets, bolstered by a 6.5% increase in trade with the region this year. Moscow's broader strategy, as discussed at SPIEF 2026, emphasizes strengthening ties with BRICS, the Middle East, and Latin America, with key infrastructure projects like the North-South transport corridor facilitating this reorientation. Looking ahead, this aggressive logistical expansion is poised to reshape Eurasian trade dynamics, cementing Russia's economic influence in its immediate neighborhood and emerging markets. However, domestic challenges, including a proposed 22% VAT on cross-border trade that could impact Chinese sellers and evolving platform economy regulations, may temper some growth. The strategic imperative remains clear: Russian e-commerce is becoming a central pillar of Moscow's 'healthy protectionism' and its ambition to forge a multipolar trade future.