The media and social networks are actively discussing the taxi localization law passed by the State Duma. Starting March 1, 2026, taxi services will be allowed only with domestic vehicles or cars assembled in Russia.
The Government of Russia’s Analytical Center, which prepared a report for the State Duma, warns of serious consequences: updating the taxi fleet could cost up to 290 billion rubles, and up to 500,000 drivers may leave the industry — many use personal cars that do not meet the new requirements. In the Far Eastern and Northwestern Federal Districts, 94% and 76% of taxi drivers respectively are affected, and nationwide only 20% of taxis meet the standards.
However, the situation is not entirely negative. Even without the law, taxi fleets would gradually transition to new domestic and Chinese vehicles. Chinese brands are already exploring ways to localize production in Russia, and the law further reinforces this trend, creating a market for domestic automakers and stimulating the development of local component supplies.
The head of the State Duma Committee on Industry and Trade, Vladimir Gutenev, notes that the law will help stabilize the market and increase government revenues. Drivers will not need to urgently replace their vehicles — the law is not retroactive, and older cars can continue operating until decommissioned. Additionally, for Siberia and the Far East, the law’s implementation deadlines are postponed to 2028 and 2030.
The main concern is the rise in prices for new Russian cars: over three years, they have increased by 26%, compared to only 7% for foreign cars. It is likely that taxi fleet demand will not lower the cost of domestic vehicles, a point that even supporters of the law tend to avoid discussing.
