Chinese companies have taken the majority of the Russian smartphone market after Western vendors departed the country for humanitarian reasons stemming from the invasion of Ukraine.

According to Russian electronics retailer M.Video-Eldorado, in H1 2023 Chinese smartphones accounted for 70% of smartphone sales, up from 55% year-on-year. Xiaomi and Realme were the top sellers in Russia, as Samsung and Apple cut their direct channels.

Overall smartphone sales in Russia were up 17% in the same period as 13 million devices were sold. M.Video-Eldorado said in a statement, brands from China continue to strengthen their stake in the market by expanding their ranges with a focus on the entry and middle segments. Meanwhile, Russian brands are increasing in popularity and brand perception.

However, Chinese brands dominated with far east phone makers taking up the top eight position in highest sellers. China has become a key trading partner for Russia as Western nations placed sanctions on the Ukrainian conflict.