Russian customs cracks down on underpriced Chinese car imports in 2026

Ussuriysk Customs has processed 33,569 privately owned vehicles imported from China so far this year. This marks a sharp rise of 2.8 times compared to the first five months of 2025. The authority has also highlighted its focus on verifying declared vehicle values to prevent underpricing. Since January, Ussuriysk Customs has handled a growing number of car imports. The checkpoint recorded 33,569 vehicles in the first five months of 2026, significantly more than the same period last year.

Inspectors flagged 545 vehicles for suspected underpricing, accounting for about 1.6% of the total. In these cases, customs independently assessed the value using available sources. Owners and import agents have criticised the practice, claiming officials often refer to the highest online catalogues and ignore foreign payment invoices proving the actual purchase price.

Ussuriysk Customs maintains that only residents or those physically present in its jurisdiction can process vehicles for personal use. It also emphasises that individuals have the right to challenge the declared value by submitting supporting evidence. The customs authority has adjusted the value of 545 cars after suspecting underpricing. This reflects its ongoing efforts to ensure declared prices align with market rates. The process remains open to appeals from vehicle owners.