Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine one year ago, Russians have replaced smartphones and cars brands with Chinese brands, such as using Xiaomi and Realme instead of iPhone and Samsung Galaxy.
The Russians have replaced the European and American cars such as Renault, Hyundai, and Kia by Chinese car companies such as Geely and Chery.
Some Russians are still hanging onto premium international brands such as Audis and Mercedes, to the extent that they buy them on vacation in Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan, according to CNN.
Many western brands, such as Renault, exited Russia leaving an open door for an opportunity to one day return to Russia.
However, even if the international brands return to Russia, Chinese companies will most probably still have the upper hand in the Russian market.
