Vladivostok customs delays leave car importers stranded for weeks
Private car importers in Vladivostok are facing severe delays at customs checkpoints since April 2026. What once took three to five days now drags on for up to ten, leaving hundreds of travellers stranded. The slowdown has disrupted the entire process of clearing vehicles from Japan and South Korea. The delays began when shipment volumes surged, overwhelming Vladivostok’s port staff. With fewer workers available, processing times for vehicle declarations and final releases have stretched far beyond normal limits. Many importers now face an extra week of waiting, causing frustration and financial strain.
Businesses involved in the trade have taken action. Formal appeals were sent to the Far Eastern Customs Administration, urging faster processing. Meanwhile, PrimaMedia contacted customs officials for an official response, though no statement has yet been issued.
The backlog continues to grow, affecting every stage of the logistics chain. From initial paperwork to the final release of cars, each step now takes longer. Consumers, in particular, are feeling the impact as additional costs pile up due to the extended delays. The situation remains unresolved, with no immediate signs of improvement. Importers and travellers are left dealing with longer waits and higher expenses. Customs authorities have yet to address the concerns raised by businesses and affected individuals.
