Russia Approves Launch of SPOT Import Control System
16 march
# Market News
The Russian government has approved a draft law introducing a system for confirming expected import shipments, known as SPOT. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation.
The system will apply to imports from EAEU countries. At the initial stage, it will cover road transport, with plans to expand it to other modes of transport in the future.
SPOT introduces two mandatory requirements for importers:
• submission to the Federal Tax Service of a supply contract issued to a Russian consignee,
• payment of a security deposit equal to the total amount of indirect taxes applicable to the shipment.
Only upon meeting these requirements will the import of goods be permitted.
Each shipment will be assigned a unique QR code, which must be verified at the border and during transportation across Russia.
The system is scheduled to be launched in pilot mode on April 1, with mandatory implementation expected from July 1, 2026, subject to the adoption of the law.
SPOT will apply to most goods imported from EAEU countries under commercial contracts. Exceptions include currency, securities, oil, electricity, and goods for personal use.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the system is aimed at increasing market transparency and improving the administration of indirect taxes.
