Russia's new taxi rules push for domestic cars by March 2023
New taxi regulations will come into force across Russia on March 1, 2023. The rules require all newly registered taxis to meet strict localization standards or be produced under special investment contracts. Authorities hope the changes will boost domestic vehicle use in passenger transport.
The updated rules will affect only cars added to taxi registries after the March deadline. Existing vehicles, including the 21,000 already registered in the Nizhny Novgorod region, can continue operating. However, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has yet to publish a final list of approved localized models, creating uncertainty for drivers and fleet operators.
Nizhny Novgorod has taken proactive steps by using regional subsidies to buy several hundred domestic electric cars for taxi services. The move highlights how some areas are adapting early to the new requirements. Volga vehicles, among others, are expected to qualify under the localization rules.
Self-employed drivers will receive a 25% quota of the region's total taxi fleet. Yet industry experts warn that major cities, where foreign-made cars dominate, may face the biggest challenges. Without enough compliant vehicles, the market could shrink in the coming years, pushing up fares and increasing wait times for passengers.
The regulations aim to shift taxi fleets toward Russian-made or heavily localized vehicles. While some regions like Nizhny Novgorod have begun preparations, delays in official approvals leave many drivers uncertain. The long-term effect may include fewer available taxis and rising costs for passengers.
