Key Barriers and Promising Export Destinations Amid Growing Competition in the CIS Countries According to REC and VCIOM All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center

In the context of unprecedented global transformations and growing competition, the CIS countries are becoming more than just neighboring territories for Russia, but a field for strategic struggle for economic influence and sales markets. On October 21, Russia National Center, as part of the Made in Russia International Export Forum, hosted a session titled Economic Impulse in the CIS: Strengthening Competitive Positions in the Context of Globalization. Russian Export Center (REC, VEB Group), in partnership with the VTSIOM Analytical Center, organized the discussion to collaborate with businesses and experts to find effective solutions for Russian companies in the rapidly developing markets of neighboring countries.

The economies of the CIS countries have demonstrated significant growth in recent years, particularly after 2022. This momentum is reflected in a steady increase in household incomes, improved living standards, and significant changes in consumption patterns. At the same time, the investment climate is rapidly evolving, with the number of major projects and scale of investments growing. Over the next three years, the CIS market is expected to reach approximately $15 billion. However, as noted during the session, they have become highly competitive for many Russian manufacturers. Recent trends have shown that the situation is becoming more complex: the region is facing increasing pressure from external players, particularly manufacturers from China and the United States, and is also seeing the active development of its own production capacities. This requires Russian companies to quickly adapt and seek innovative approaches.

Stanislav Georgievsky, Vice President, Russian Export Center, presented the results of the study "Key Barriers and Needs of Exporters," which identified the main challenges Russian companies face when entering CIS markets.

"REC-powered study, which we conduct annually to tailor our and government support measures, showed that more than half of Russian companies plan to expand in neighboring markets. At the same time, our businesses are seeing significant demand for support in finding buyers, organizing international exhibitions and business missions, and building advertising campaigns. We are taking this into account in our work for 2026 and see potential for joint projects with our partners in this area.”

According to Russian Export Center, the most promising markets for export, in addition to the EAEU and CIS countries, are China, the Middle East, ASEAN, and South Asia.

It's worth noting that the Russian Export Center has been developing My Export digital platform for five years now – a comprehensive digital ecosystem that fully meets exporters' needs throughout the export cycle, from training and export analytics to deal financing. My Export offers training and analytical services, as well as consultations on various aspects of export activities. The platform helps list products on relevant foreign online platforms, obtain permits (export licenses, veterinary and phytosanitary certificates, and certificates of origin), find logistics specialists, apply for support, review and submit applications for banking and insurance products. Exporters have already received over 2 million services.

In turn, Mark Murashko, Managing Director, REC Product Office, presented the results of a joint study by the VTSIOM Analytical Center and REC. According to him, "today, Russia is a key economic partner for the populations of most countries in the CIS region." Residents of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan (59% each) most often name Russia as the most promising country for developing trade, while in Tajikistan this figure is 46%, and in Azerbaijan - 43%. Meanwhile, in Moldova (20%) and Georgia (15%), Russia's priority is lower, while China, Türkiye, the EU, and the US are often cited as other important partners.

Demand for Russian goods is highest in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Armenia, and lowest in Georgia and Moldova. This study also revealed that the main product categories in which residents of CIS countries have chosen Russian manufacturers in recent years are food, household chemicals, cosmetics, construction materials, and light industry goods.

Consumers cite high quality (from 61% in Kyrgyzstan to 73% in Tajikistan), as well as price-quality ratio and competitive pricing as the main reasons for choosing Russian goods.

During the discussion, participants examined in detail the steps necessary to maintain and enhance the competitiveness of Russian technologies, goods, and services. Strategies and mechanisms for supporting economic growth in the CIS countries were proposed, aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and consolidating Russia's leading position in these key markets.

Made in Russia International Export Forum is a key event of the year for Russian exporters. The Forum is organized by Russian Export Center. The Moscow Government is the business program partner. TASS is the general information partner. RIA Novosti is the exclusive information partner. Information partners include Channel One, Rossiya24, MAER Media, Vedomosti, Expert, Gazprom Media, and Insight People. Roscongress Foundation is the operator of the Forum's business program.

Russian Export Center (REC, VEB Group) is a government institution that supports non-resource, non-energy export. It provides companies from various industries with both financial and non-financial support at all stages of entering international markets, including as part of the International Cooperation and Export national project. Most services offered by the REC Group are available online on My Export digital platform. REC is also responsible for the key functions of supporting and implementing the Made in Russia program.