AEB committee admits return of foreign car brands to Russia
The return of foreign automobile brands back to the Russian market is possible. This was stated by Alexei Kalitsev, head of the automakers' committee of the Association of European Businesses (AEB), at a press conference.
"You know, we as an association do not comment on the policy or decision of each brand, but if you answer so briefly, I would not rule it out at all. In general, nothing can be ruled out now," Kalitsev was quoted by TASS on January 13.
However, he believes that the situation "may turn in a completely different direction". However, as Kalitsev noted, AEB is still in communication with representatives of most foreign automobile brands, which may be a reason for optimism.
Also on this day, the AEB said that if current conditions persist, the Russian car market in 2025 may shrink to 1.4 million, taking into account all supply channels, that is, by about 15%. Thus, the market volume may approach the 2016 figure.
According to the association's calculations, at the end of 2024, 1.47 million new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles will be sold in Russia, excluding alternative supply channels, which is 56% higher than the result of 2023. Taking into account alternative supply channels, according to APC, the market volume amounted to 1.65 million units, with growth of 46%.
On January 13, it was reported that AvtoVAZ resumed car production after the New Year vacations and vacation. The company suspended car production from December 29 to January 12. During the New Year vacations at AvtoVAZ planned to carry out more than 9 thousand works.
