WTO Accession didn’t boost imports – Russian Government
During the six-month period of WTO membership Russian import hasn’t increased significantly. This is according to the Ministry of economic development study. In 2012 Russia increased import by 2% - to $312.6 bln compared to $305.8 in 2011, Nov-Dec import was smaller compared to the same period of the previous year.
Some market experts believe it’s too early to speak about import boost as not all planned customs duties are lowered yet, by the way 2012 results do not build a complete picture as contracts with suppliers are usually concluded for one year period. Imports may also be restrained by administrative and technological barriers.
Meanwhile, according to National Dairy Producers Union data, dairy products import is gradually increasing, it is only restrained by the fact, that international milk prices in 2012 grew significantly and to compete with the local producers is not beneficial for exporters.
