From Regions to the World: Made in Russia Opens New Horizons for Export

On August 27, a plenary session entitled Global Prospects for Domestic Companies: Made in Russia National Brand was held in Cheboksary as part of the meeting on the implementation of the International Cooperation and Export national project. Participants discussed the role of umbrella brands in promoting Russian products abroad, priority export markets, and support measures for domestic manufacturers.

Alexey Kuzmitsky, Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Volga Federal District, noted that the district possesses significant industrial and export potential, and the participation of foreign trade entities located in its regions in the events of the International Cooperation and Export national project helps to unlock this potential.

"The government's role is to support businesses seeking new markets and expanding their trade geography in the face of sanctions pressure and transformation of foreign trade. It's important to understand the structure of trade flows and conduct a detailed analysis of the relationship between exports and imports for specific areas and product groups. Taking into account the results of this analysis and the objectives set by the President for developing the national economy and increasing high-tech production, it's necessary to further refine the national project, including in terms of import support, export support centers, and other promising areas," Alexey Kuzmitsky.

According to the Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative, it is important to ensure a comprehensive approach and support at all stages, from production to after-sales service, including logistics, interaction with contractors, and payments. This is especially relevant for small and medium-sized businesses.

Alexey Kuzmitsky emphasized the importance of monitoring the relevance and ease of implementation of measures when providing support for foreign economic activity. "It is especially important to focus on feedback from businesses. Business and entrepreneurial associations play a significant role in this regard, constantly assessing risks and challenges and serving as a link between entrepreneurs, development institutions, and government agencies. The regions' objective is to ensure effective interdepartmental and inter-level cooperation, respond promptly to the situation, and take timely measures to resolve emerging issues."

Nikita Gusakov, EXIAR CEO and Senior Vice President of Russian Export Center, recalled that this spring, the Russian Government approved a program initiated by Russian President Vladimir Putin to promote the Made in Russia national brand through 2030. "This program creates additional opportunities for companies, namely reduces barriers to entry into foreign markets, builds trust with buyers and partners, and ensures the systematic promotion of domestic brands internationally. Nearly 1,200 companies have already joined the Made in Russia program, receiving voluntary certification, more than 320 of which are from the Volga Federal District," Nikita Gusakov.

Dmitry Kuskov, Director of the Department for International Cooperation and Licensing at the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, discussed priority foreign markets and the need to improve competitiveness of Russian industrial products. "A national brand is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs, helping them enter international markets. By creating a strong national brand, we are laying the foundation for sustainable growth, increased competitiveness, and a stronger position for the country on the global stage. It is important to actively engage in the program, join efforts and infrastructure of all participants," Dmitry Kuskov.

Sergei Artamonov, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Chuvash Republic, recalled that Chuvashia plans to implement a new support measure in the near future, namely introduce export cashback, which will reimburse exporters for up to 5% of their expenses.

In 2025, export volume amounted to USD 361 million, with products supplied to 84 countries. Electrical and mechanical engineering products accounted for 60% of exports, agricultural products accounted for 16%, and chemical products for almost 14%. The President set a goal of doubling agricultural exports by 2030. We have already begun to achieve this and we will also increase exports by 70% in all other areas.

Larisa Rafikova, Minister of Economic Development and Property Relations of the Chuvash Republic, shared the region's experience: "The Chuvash Republic participates in a nationwide program, while its companies and their products demonstrate that Made in Russia is a sign of the highest quality, reliability, and innovation. To date, 13 companies in the Republic have successfully undergone certification and hold valid certificates. These are 12 success stories, 12 brands that now set the standard."

In particular, AKKOND, CHUVASHKHLEBOPRODUKT, Derevenskiy Dvorik, Promtraktor, Kaskad, Relematika, Proektelektrotekhnika, Chuvashteplokabel, individual entrepreneur Mikhailov V.Yu., VILAN Factory, Lenta and Oktyabrskoye are Made in Russia mark holders from Chuvash.

The certificate can be obtained based on five criteria, namely quality, reliability, uniqueness, eco-friendliness, and organic nature. To get it, a company and its products or services are not subject to additional checks by REC. It needs to submit an application on the Russian Export Center website, attaching the required documents electronically, and sign the automatically generated form.

Julia Kolcheva, Deputy Head of the Department for Agricultural Export Development at the Russian Ministry of Agriculture, noted that the promotion of finished branded products, expanded distribution through retail chains, and stable supplies remain key factors for the agricultural sector. She added that highly processed Russian products are in demand abroad.

The meeting demonstrated that the national umbrella brand is becoming an important element of state export policy, creating a recognizable image of Russia and opening up new prospects for domestic businesses in global markets.

For more information about the Made in Russia program please visit the official website.