Russia Proposes 22% VAT and 100-Ruble Customs Fee on All Foreign Online Purchases
The Russian Ministry of Finance has proposed adding a standard 22% VAT to goods imported from foreign internet stores and marketplaces. Even small parcels will not escape additional charges: a customs fee of 100 rubles is planned for every postal shipment valued up to 200 euros.
The amendments form part of a larger package of changes to the Tax Code and the draft federal budget for 2027-2029, which the Ministry has already submitted to the government. The new rules are not yet in force and must still be examined and approved by lawmakers.
Electronic trading platforms will be appointed as tax agents. Although the marketplaces themselves will formally remit the VAT, buyers are expected to see the tax reflected in the final price tag, as is typical with other business costs.
According to the Ministry, the initiative is necessary to level the competitive playing field between Russian sellers and foreign platforms while continuing efforts to bring the economy out of the shadows. At present, cross-border purchases up to 200 euros enjoy duty-free status under EAEU rules. After the changes, this exemption will be significantly narrowed: VAT will apply regardless of purchase value, and each parcel will also face the 100-ruble fee.
An earlier, more gradual approach that would have raised VAT from 7% in 2027 to 22% in 2029 was considered but ultimately rejected in favor of introducing the full rate immediately. If the amendments are adopted, routine purchases of inexpensive goods from foreign platforms will become noticeably more expensive for Russian consumers.
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