economy
The 'evil' West left, and Russians are calling it back! More than half of citizens want foreign brands to return
More than half of Russian citizens, about 56 percent, want Western companies to return to the market after they left following the start of the war in 2022, according to a survey by Gruppa 7/89 conducted in early 2026, Vedomosti reports.
TL;DR
- 56% of Russians want Western companies to return to the market.
- Automotive brands are the most desired, with 41% expressing interest.
- Entertainment (film, music, video games), software, furniture, construction materials, food & beverage, and cosmetics are also in demand.
- Younger citizens (18-29 years old) show the highest support (84%), while those over 60 are less enthusiastic (38%).
- 27% of respondents do not want foreign companies to return, and 17% are undecided.
- Western companies withdrew from Russia after the 2022 conflict, leading to nationalization of some assets.
- Western firms currently have no plans to return, and Russian authorities state no special conditions will be offered.