Russian Metalware Industry: Challenges and Opportunities in the Unequal Competition with Imports

Abstract

The authors analyzed statistical data to assess the current state of the domestic metalware industry before and after the imposition of anti-Russian sanctions. It was revealed that Russia has excess production capacity for the manufacture of hardware products, but their full utilization and development of the industry are hindered by low demand in the domestic market, growing imports, including high-tech hardware, and a sharp reduction in export opportunities starting from 2021. These circumstances lead to a further decrease in the utilization of Russian enterprises, loss of profitability, and hinder the development of the industry. To protect the domestic market and support domestic producers, a number of measures are proposed: the introduction of import quotas and duties, support for export activities, and the removal of transport restrictions on the transportation of products. The results of the study may be of interest to scientists and practitioners studying the problems of the sectoral economy.