Russia’s demand for high-quality food and agricultural products is growing year-on-year, especially for trusted brands from Vietnam. In 2025, importing into Russia presents a lucrative opportunity—thanks to trade agreements, strong retail demand, and evolving regulatory frameworks.
This comprehensive guide helps Vietnamese exporters navigate Russia’s import regulations for food, agriculture, and related goods, while highlighting how Bukreev Consulting can support every step—excluding visa, company registration, or long-term residence services.
Russia offsets Western import reductions by welcoming Asian suppliers
Retailers like Magnit, X5, and online platforms Wildberries/Ozon are actively sourcing regional goods
Government encourages import of healthy, natural, and specialty products from trusted partners
Insight: Vietnamese exporters who position themselves now can secure fast-track distribution channels, especially in under-served regions outside Moscow and St. Petersburg.
2. Key Regulations for Importing Food & Agriculture into Russia
📦 Product Registration & Certificates
Phytosanitary certificate required for plant-based goods (tea, fruit, spices)
Veterinary certificate for seafood, meat, and processed animal products
Certificate of conformity or EAC certificate for packaging, shelf life, safety
Labeling must be in Russian, clearly listing ingredients, origin, storage, and importer details
🏭 Traceability & Testing
Many products need lab testing in accredited Russian labs
ETHNIC and Asian specialty foods gaining cult popularity
Premium pet food and herbal wellness products
6. Best Practices for Exporters in 2025
Ensure all documents are translated into Russian and validated
Start with pH-tested pilot shipments to build trust and streamline processes
Partner with experienced local agents for paperwork and quality control
Leverage Bukreev Consulting to facilitate digital market entry (Yandex Ads, Wildberries onboarding)
Build in-price buffer to accommodate duties, VAT, and certification costs
7. How Bukreev Consulting Supports Your Export Journey
While Bukreev Consulting does not assist with visas, company registration, or residence permits, we provide vital support including:
HS code classification and customs duty optimization
Certification guidance: EAC labels, phytosanitary and veterinary documentation
Liaison with accredited labs and regulatory authorities
Import documentation handling and logistics coordination
Warehouse setup in SEZs, fulfillment, cold storage logistics
Connecting exporters with local distributors, FMCG networks, and e-commerce platforms
Russian-language digital marketing support: Yandex Ads, local branding, social media
8. Common Questions from Vietnamese Exporters
Can I import without a Russian company?
Yes—for small quantities. But large-scale imports benefit from using local Russian distributors or customs agents.
How long does registration take?
Certifications take 2–4 weeks, lab tests 7–10 days, and customs clearance ~48 hours once documents are submitted.
Are tariffs always waived?
Only if the shipment matches product criteria under the Vietnam–EAEU agreement—and certificates are provided.
Can Bukreev Consulting help me find import partners?
Absolutely—we facilitate introductions to regional distributors, retail chains, and restaurant groups.
Conclusion: Why 2025 Is Your Year to Scale into Russia
With Tariff preferences, growing consumer interest, and modernized customs frameworks, 2025 is a golden opportunity for Vietnamese exporters to tap into Russia’s food and agricultural market. With Bukreev Consulting, you’ll avoid common pitfalls, accelerate entry, and build a successful presence—fully legally and operationally ready.