Import substitution in the elevator industry is gradually transforming into a model of technological dependence on China. Russian developers are increasingly choosing Chinese equipment, and local manufacturers are moving towards cooperation with China instead of a full cycle of their own production.
A striking example is the Serpukhov Elevator Manufacturing Plant, which is launching a joint line of elevators with the Chinese company Hosting.
The Chinese side supplies engineering solutions, components, and control systems, while the Russian site is responsible for assembly and adaptation of products to the market, explained Stanislav Mudrov to the consulting company Neo.
He explained that there is a noticeable problem with equipping high-rise buildings that require high-speed elevators, and premium projects, where Russian manufacturers often lose out.
The share of Chinese elevators in Russia is growing very rapidly. As early as the beginning of 2026, it reached 23.3% compared to 12.5% in 2024. The main factor is price. Chinese equipment is simply 30–40% cheaper.
Earlier it became known that Russian regions halved their elevator purchases in 2026. The problem, as usual, is funding — manufacturing plants are only operating at 40–50% capacity.
