16:13 12-03-2026

South Korea cracks down on illegal car exports to Russia

South Korea's customs service plans stricter controls on illegal car exports to Russia, as shipments surged fivefold in 2025, targeting premium models and large engines.

South Korea's customs service has announced plans to tighten controls on the illegal export of cars to Russia. This move comes in response to data showing a sharp increase in vehicle shipments routed through third countries, primarily China, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.

According to the Korea Customs Service, the volume of illegal car exports from South Korea to Russia surged more than fivefold in 2025, reaching 149.2 billion won, or approximately $100 million. This spike occurred after Seoul implemented stricter export restrictions in 2024.

Investigations have uncovered several schemes used to circumvent sanctions. Some traders declared exports to neighboring countries while Russia was the actual final destination. Others purchased new vehicles, registered them as used, and then shipped them through third nations.

Customs officials note that a significant portion of these vehicles are premium models, including German brands imported into South Korea. Since 2024, the country has required special permits for exporting cars with engines larger than 2.0 liters to Russia. Violators face up to seven years in prison or fines up to five times the value of the goods.

With many Western brands having withdrawn, the Russian market increasingly relies on parallel imports. Central Asian countries and China have become key supply routes, channeling tens of thousands of vehicles into Russia, including European and Korean models. South Korea's enhanced controls could complicate these operations, particularly for premium vehicles and those with larger engines.

However, experts interviewed by 32CARS.RU point out that the parallel import market remains adaptable. When controls tighten in one country, suppliers often quickly reroute logistics and find new supply channels.