Unsolicted taxi drivers are infiltrating private vehicles.
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Starting March 1, 2026, a recent law in Russia will unfold, allowing only indigenous vehicles that meet specific localization thresholds to operate in taxi services, with certain exceptions for those already registered by the stated date, specifically in the Kaliningrad region, Siberian Federal District, and the Far Eastern Federal District. The enforcement dates for these regions have been extended to March 1, 2028, and March 1, 2030, respectively.
To qualify for taxi duty, vehicles must either meet a predefined localization points system or be manufactured under special investment agreements inked between March 1, 2022, and March 1, 2025. post-2033, only compliance with the localization points system will be considered relevant.
Learn more about this law here.
Interestingly, the stringent initial localization requirements faced criticism for being overly harsh. However, the State Duma has amended the law to make it more lenient, permitting vehicles with relatively lower localization levels to be employed as taxis. This change aims to counter concerns that the initial requirements may lead to a substantial drop in the number of taxi drivers and an increase in fleet update costs[2].
Regarding the timeline for various federal districts, the law will take effect from March 1, 2026, with certain regions possibly experiencing additional delays. The specifics regarding these delays are not explicitly stated but it is noted that the amendments allow for regional flexibility when implementing the localization requirements[2]. The National Taxi Council Association has also proposed further alterations, such as granting regions the authority to introduce or abolish the localization requirement, though these suggestions are not detailed in the recent amendments [1].
Key Points:
- Flexible Localization Requirements: The law now accommodates vehicles with lower localization rates for taxi duties.
- Effective Date: March 1, 2026.
- Regional Leeway: Some regions may receive additional time or have the option to adjust the localization requirements based on regional needs.
- Proposed Adjustments: The National Taxi Council Association put forth more modifications, including giving regions control over whether to implement the localization requirement.
- In light of the amended law, vehicles with lower localization levels can now operate in Russian taxi services, signaling a shift in the industry finance and transportation sectors.
- As the deadlines for implementing the localization requirements vary among federal districts, some regions might experience further delays, offering potential opportunities for regional adjustments in the near future.
