Sales of smartphones in Russia fell twice in March
Sales of smartphones in Russia in March fell by half. This was reported by Russian media, citing data from an unnamed partner company of several electronics manufacturers. Experts believe that by the end of the year, sales may also be halved.
Between March 7 and 13, 380,000 smartphones sold in Russia. For comparison, in the period from 14 to 20 February in the country sold 744 thousand smartphones, and from 21 to 27 February–703 thousand devices. This means that compared to the pre-Russian invasion of Ukraine and the imposition of sanctions against Russia, sales have almost halved.
According to preliminary estimates, the volume of smartphones sold in Russia in March decreased by 18% compared to the same period a year earlier.
Representatives of one of the largest retail chains in Russia said that by the end of March, the peak of interest in flagship smartphones had vanished, and demand redistributed in the middle and lower price ranges.
In the middle and lower price segments, smartphones from Chinese manufacturers traditionally widely represented. In general, the share of Chinese brands in the Russian market recently has reached 55-60% broken, which is 50% more than last year. This growth can be explained by the fact that most smartphone manufacturers have joined the sanctions and left Russia.
Technology in Russia is much more expensive
Since the beginning of March, the shipping cost of digital equipment from vendors and distributors has increased by 30% for Russian buyers.
Russia currently has high hopes for the Asian market. Thanks to smartphones from China, prices may stabilize somewhat.
Meanwhile, Russia has essentially legalized the “gray” import of equipment into the country. According to a recent order. In fact, Russia now allowed to import equipment without obtaining permits from the right holder, manufacturer or dealer.
