Putin extends parallel import mechanism in Russia until 2026

President Vladimir Putin has signed a law extending Russia’s parallel import mechanism, along with several other anti-sanctions measures, through 2026.

The legislation, published on the official legal portal, allows goods to be imported into Russia without the consent of the rights holder or trademark owner.

The mechanism has been in force since May 2022, and the new law ensures its continuation throughout the next year.

The bill was introduced to mitigate the effects of “unfriendly” actions by foreign states, with the explanatory note emphasising that it will help maintain the supply of socially important goods to the Russian market.

Under the law, the Russian government retains the authority to approve the list of goods exempt from certain provisions of the Civil Code governing the protection of exclusive rights. The mechanism forms part of broader measures aimed at supporting the domestic economy amid international restrictions.

The legislation also extends the government’s powers in 2026 to set rules for product compliance assessment, state oversight, licensing, and the circulation of medical devices and pharmaceuticals.

By Aghakazim Guliyev