A favorable ruble-to-yuan exchange rate and attractive promotions from Chinese retailers have significantly boosted the appeal of shopping in the Celestial Empire. It has become particularly advantageous to purchase clothing, including brands that have left the Russian market, as well as electronics like iPhones, and furniture.
Russians are en masse embarking on shopping tours to China, drawn by affordable prices on clothing, the latest iPhones, and furniture. While such trips were popular a decade ago, the introduction of visa-free travel has reignited their popularity. The attractive ruble-to-yuan exchange rate makes the price difference substantial, and Chinese vendors actively entice shoppers with advantageous promotions and sales. For instance, smartphones there are 15-20 thousand rubles cheaper than in Russia. Wardrobes and sofas can be bought in autumn with discounts up to 80%, with many customers ordering «turnkey» furniture directly to the Russian Federation.
Shenzhen is renowned globally as the electronics capital, offering a wide array of tech for every taste and budget. Undoubtedly, the primary driver for many trips is the purchase of iPhones. The base model of the 17th series, officially priced at around 6,000 yuan (less than 70,000 rubles), is noticeably cheaper than its Russian counterpart, even considering discounts and the «grey market.» As for mass-market fashion, it`s more profitable to buy it not in branded stores, but in local markets where collections are updated faster, and discounts are often more genuine and generous.
Foshan, near Guangzhou, stands as China`s furniture capital. It operates on the principle of wholesale exhibition complexes, bringing together dozens of manufacturers under one roof. Dmitry Voronin, a Sinologist, entrepreneur, and specialist in working with China, shares insights into shopping trips:
Dmitry Voronin, Sinologist, Entrepreneur, China Business Specialist:
«Furniture here is two to three times cheaper than it is sold in Russia. You only pay for delivery to the factory and a small additional commission to the person who introduced you to that factory. Ultimately, it turns out significantly cheaper. Often, you can order customized furniture, and the factory will produce it in 15-20 days, and you`ll receive it in about a month. Electronics were 10-15% cheaper before sanctions, and after sanctions, the difference sometimes reaches 20%. Overall, if you are going to China to see the country and offset some of your expenses, buying electronics and furniture is a very good option. Also, purchasing clothing from brands that have left Russia is a good option. Regarding prices, especially for furniture, in China, you need to find trusted people who won`t inflate their commission to the original price of the furniture item, people who work transparently. For electronics, there are large markets, their addresses are known to everyone. If you`re lucky and find an honest seller, you can save some money. Otherwise, if you come unprepared, you might be sold a slightly or significantly more expensive refurbished item disguised as new, or a new item at a price adequate to the Russian market.»
According to the expert, with no viable alternatives in Europe and direct flights to China, shopping tours are expected to continue gaining popularity. One could, for example, buy a sofa or an office furniture set, ship it by container via railway (there are numerous transport companies, just pick the best offers), and then enjoy the beauties of the Celestial Empire. However, it`s crucial to remember personal baggage and customs regulations. For air travel, the total value of purchases must not exceed 10,000 euros, and the weight limit is 50 kilograms. For ground transportation, the duty-free limit is 500 euros and 25 kilograms. Equipment valued over 5,000 yuan (approximately 55,000 rubles) per unit must be declared to customs.
Vladislav Varshavsky, managing partner of the law firm «Varshavsky and Partners,» clarifies:
Vladislav Varshavsky, Managing Partner, «Varshavsky and Partners» Law Firm:
«There are regulations and thresholds for duty-free import. For anything above these limits, a customs payment will be required, calculated by the customs authority based on either weight or value. This payment must be made without fail. A common mistake citizens make, bringing ten bags on one trip, is claiming they pass customs based on value and weight. No, that`s considered a commercial consignment, and you will be obliged to pay the full customs duty. If you fail to declare and proceed through the `green corridor,` it incurs additional administrative liability.»
Another unexpected category of purchases made by Russians under sanctions is medicine. Certain medications, unavailable in Russia, are sold in China. If necessary, tourists bring them back for personal use or for acquaintances. However, there are caveats: it`s advisable to check the permitted list of drugs before traveling, and prescription medications cannot simply be bought over the counter.
