Trade policy of Russia regarding wood and articles of wood

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the Russian forest sector, as well as an analysis of the dynamics of exports and imports of the forest industry in the post-Soviet period. The changes in the trade policies since 1990 in the framework of its individual instruments (tariff regulations, licensing, certifi cation and phytosanitary control) are considered. It is also describes the effects of Russia’s accession to the World Trade Organization on the forest industry. The paper concludes that in the short run the current trade policy with regard to the forest industry will likely have a negative impact on the Russian economy. But in the long run, under adequate policy and its effective implementation, it can lead to positive results.