In Russia, goods from AliExpress want to be subject to VAT

This will lead to a significant increase in the price of foreign goods from Wildberries, Ozon or AliExpress

The Russian Ministry of Finance has proposed introducing a phased value added tax (VAT) on all foreign goods sold through marketplaces . Currently, purchases under 200 euros are duty-free, but this will change from 2027. RTVI drew the attention of the draft document.

According to the draft amendments to the Tax Code, the tax will be introduced gradually - in 2027 - 5%, in 2028 - 10%, in 2029 - 15%, and from 2030 - the standard 20%.

The tax will affect all cross-border orders, including those that previously fell under the duty-free limit of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). This will lead to a significant increase in the price of foreign goods that Russians order through platforms such as Wildberries, Ozon or AliExpress.

According to the project, the tax will be paid either by foreign sellers themselves or by Russian marketplaces through which sales take place. It will be possible to submit declarations electronically, and the Federal Tax Service will have access to customs data for control.

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VAT increase and pressure on small businesses

This initiative follows another proposal from the Ministry of Finance - to increase the general VAT rate in the country from 20% to 22%. It is also proposed to reduce the income limit under which small businesses can use a simplified taxation system - from 60 to 10 million rubles.

According to the Ministry of Finance, additional money is needed to finance defense and security, as well as to balance the budget for 2026-2028.

Many MPs warn that such measures could accelerate inflation, hit purchasing power and push businesses into the shadows. Some parliamentarians are proposing to introduce protective measures for low-income citizens, such as expanding food assistance programs.

Previously, “Verstka” wrote that the Russian government is discussing an increase in VAT or personal income tax due to military spending . According to experts, there is no alternative to raising taxes, otherwise it will be impossible to close the budget hole.

Photo: IMAGO/Christian Ohde via Reuters Connect

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