More than half of Russians want foreign brands to return due to the consequences of isolation

Since the beginning of the full-scale war against Ukraine, Russia has increasingly felt the consequences of international isolation. The exit of foreign companies, rising prices, and import problems have led to a significant portion of Russians wanting global brands to return to the market.  This was reported by the Foreign Intelligence Service, according to UNN.

Details

Russia is increasingly facing the consequences of its own geopolitical isolation that followed the start of the full-scale war against Ukraine. What seemed like a stable market with a wide choice of international brands just a few years ago has today turned into a space of forced substitutes, parallel imports, and rising prices. And, judging by new surveys, a significant part of the population openly feels this as a loss.

According to research data from the "Group 7/89" association, 56% of surveyed Russian citizens would like foreign companies to return to the market. The greatest demand is for automotive brands, the film industry, software developers, and manufacturers of consumer goods.

The situation has become particularly difficult in the technological and industrial sectors. Following the exit of companies such as Microsoft, Oracle, Adobe, and Autodesk, the Russian software market found itself in conditions of artificial isolation. This has led to price increases, reduced competition, and the need to seek alternative solutions.

The situation with fast-moving consumer goods remains equally complex. Food products, cosmetics, and household appliances have become more expensive due to parallel imports and logistical complications. Some Russians directly admit that there are "no analogues" in Russia.

Sociological data also records a split in society. Young people are most eager for the return of foreign companies, while the older generation is more restrained. In large cities, the demand for global business is significantly higher than in small settlements.

As a reminder

The European Union approved the 20th package of sanctions against Russia, which has become one of the toughest in recent times. The new restrictions cover energy, the financial sector, the military industry, cryptocurrencies, trade, and Kremlin propaganda resources.