WTO accession has already decreased customs fees for imported cars from 30% to 25%, and this fee will gradually decrease to 15% in 2019. However, just a month after accession, Russia introduced utilization fees, which negate the effect of decrease for importers. On the other hand, local producers will receive subsidies to compensate for these fees.
Shortly before WTO accession, the Russian government proposed new six-year agreements on stricter conditions. In general, these agreements do not comply with WTO rules, but as a result of negotiations, they became an exception until 2020. Foreign brands are now required to produce a minimum of 300,000 cars with 60% local parts, set to more rigorous localization standards and an obligation to open a research and development center in Russia.