Surging Auto Sales: Unprecedented Car Sales Figure Reached in July, Russia
In July 2025, Russia witnessed a significant surge in car sales, marking a recovery from earlier market declines. This growth, amounting to a one-third increase compared to June, can be attributed to a perfect storm of factors that created a favourable buying environment.
Firstly, buyers' expectations have shifted. With major global automotive brands yet to return, consumers have started purchasing available Russian and Chinese cars. The allure of attractive discounts and subsidized loans offered by automakers has further boosted affordability, encouraging purchases.
The Central Bank's interest rate cut made bank deposits less profitable, prompting people to withdraw savings and invest in cars instead. Additionally, currency fluctuations in the second half of July pushed individuals to buy vehicles quickly before prices rose further.
The affordability of domestic and Chinese brands, such as Lada, Haval, and Chery, has also played a significant role. These brands benefited from aggressive pricing and government-backed loans, supporting demand despite economic challenges. State subsidies covering about 20% of car prices and preferential loans funding a majority of purchases in 2024 have helped sustain sales into 2025.
Despite a drop in car loans in June 2025 due to tighter lending conditions, increased cash purchases and loan subsidies have kept demand supported.
For those considering buying a used car abroad and importing it to Russia, it's worth noting that the process can take one or two months and requires a reliable, trusted agent for the purchase and paperwork. However, this method can be more cost-effective, with potential savings of several hundred thousand to over a million rubles.
It's crucial to remember that not all cars are created equal, and a BMW made in China or Korea may differ in quality from a German-made BMW. The recycling fee for private individuals importing a car for personal use is 3,400-5,200 rubles, while for companies, it depends on the engine volume.
Interestingly, the record for used car imports was set in July 2023 with 51,300 imported cars, followed closely by 47,300 imports in July 2022, the second-highest result in history.
For those seeking more information on used car prices, car sales, and car maintenance, there are numerous relevant articles and podcasts available. It's also worth mentioning that bringing a slightly used 'Chinese' car from China may not pose a problem and could be just as good as one bought in Russia. Lastly, it's important to note that the increase in used car imports in July 2022 was not due to an increase in duties, which are not planned to be increased until January.
- The surge in car sales in July 2025, a recovery from earlier market declines, is not only due to the favorable buying environment but also the shift in consumer preferences towards purchasing Russian and Chinese cars.
- The cattle bank's interest rate cut in July 2025, coupled with attractive discounts and subsidized loans offered by automakers, has made cars more affordable, contributing to the increased car sales.
- The affordability of domestic and Chinese brands like Lada, Haval, and Chery, which benefit from aggressive pricing and government-backed loans, has played a significant role in the growth of the car industry in Russia.
