FX.co ★ Russian Car Sales Fall 19.9% in October

Sales of new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles in Russia declined by 19.9% year-on-year in October 2026, totalling 136,806 units. “This decrease is primarily due to the high comparison base of the previous year, when consumer activity rose sharply ahead of changes to the recycling fee. Overall market sentiment remains constrained by the current level of the key interest rate, reduced access to financing, and the suspension of government support measures. At the same time, the anticipated resumption of the subsidised car loan programme from 1 December, together with rising interest in hybrid vehicles, could provide additional support to the market towards the end of the year,” said Alexey Kalitsev, Chairman of the Automobile Manufacturers Committee.