Chinese carmakers diverge in Russia under sanctions, protectionism

While Chery withdraws, Great Wall Motor 'doubles down'

20251002 chery russia

Cars produced by Chinese automaker Chery are displayed at a dealership in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in September 2024. The company says Russia's contribution to its revenue will soon be "negligible." © Reuters

KENJI KAWASE

TOKYO -- Chinese automakers have been major beneficiaries of Russia's war on Ukraine, as they swiftly filled the void left by an exodus of global rivals after the February 2022 invasion. But their paths are diverging as they run into a dilemma: the threat of sanctions for profiting in the country, coupled with rising protectionism on the part of Russian President Vladimir Putin's government.

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