Marketplace sellers in panic: possible VAT increase to 22% may affect prices

From January 1, 2026, the VAT rate in Russia may be increased to 22%, Reuters reports, citing sources. It is also proposed to reduce the threshold for VAT exemption from 60 to 10 million rubles. Marketplace participants are already predicting price increases, as the increased VAT is effectively paid by the end buyer.

Experts advise sellers to recalculate the cost of goods in advance and create new cards taking into account the increased tax burden.

Experts note that the tax increase will particularly affect the upper price segment and companies with large turnovers, which face high costs for audits and consultations. Sellers are advised to reduce the range, get rid of unprofitable goods and minimize secondary expenses.

Recommendations for calculating the tax burden include adjusting the simplified tax system (STS): for 1% with VAT, the total rate will be about 5.71%, for 6% - about 10.48%. It is also necessary to take into account the increase in logistics tariffs, advertising costs and conduct stress tests for various scenarios: increase in exchange rate, logistics, commissions and CPM.

The final decision will be made as part of the preparation of the draft budget for 2026. It is planned to be presented to the State Duma on September 29.

An increase in VAT in Russia to 22% may cause an increase in inflation and the key rate, TASS was told by the head of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Shokhin.

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