The Industry Ministry wants sellers — not platforms — to set product prices.
Russia’s Industry and Trade Ministry has proposed banning online marketplaces from influencing product prices, leaving pricing decisions entirely to sellers, according to a draft concept for a new national retail model.
The proposal outlines a phased approach. At the first stage, platforms would be required to agree discounts funded by the marketplace with sellers, and a refusal by a seller should not affect the terms of cooperation. At a later stage, marketplaces could be fully barred from participating in price formation.
“Pricing for a product should be managed by the seller, not the platform,”
the draft concept states. The ministry argues that artificially lowering prices on online platforms leads to unfair competition.
The new retail model is aimed at supporting offline commerce, particularly small and medium-sized businesses in the regions. The ministry also stressed that local retail outlets play a key role in ensuring food security.
In 2025, the number of active online sellers declined for the first time. Sellers face multiple challenges, including rising commissions, pressure to offer discounts, and competitive advantages enjoyed by foreign sellers over domestic ones.
Source: Kommersant, RBC
