Russian marketplaces will start recommending domestic products first

Russia is preparing for changes in the operation of major online platforms. Under the “Russian shelf” draft law, marketplaces will be required to more actively promote domestically produced goods. This was stated by Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov in an interview, excerpts of which were published by TASS.

According to him, if a customer searches for a product without specifying a particular brand, marketplaces will have to prioritize recommendations of Russian-made products. In addition, when a foreign product is selected, users will simultaneously be offered a similar domestically produced alternative. These measures are aimed at supporting Russian manufacturers and strengthening their position in online commerce amid competition with foreign companies.

The draft law provides for special requirements regarding the placement of product cards, which should increase the visibility of Russian products in search results and recommendations on marketplaces.