Kirill Chernovol took part in a meeting of AIPS Strategic Quarterly Forum

Kirill Chernovol spoke on international practices and standards of responsible business conduct for the development of technology transfer and production localization. The expert noted that currently there are systemic problems observed in the industry, as imports of specialized machinery in Russia are sold without a mechanism for its after-sales servicing, thus preventing timely repair and maintenance. For example, supplies from China are constrained by lack of professionals having language skills to provide maintenance services for such machinery. At the same time, Russia still needs such supplies, as the domestic market is declining, which is confirmed by data provided by the European Business Association, i.e. by 38.1% for 2023. Some countries are already introducing regulatory mechanisms to support such professionals. For example, the United States, Mexico and Canada have concluded the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which facilitates entry for nationals of those countries involved in post-sales servicing and distribution without the need for a work permit.

The expert emphasized the importance of introducing responsible business practices, OECD standards regulating relations with friendly countries in terms of business cooperation. Lack of after-sales servicing of specialized machinery reduces the confidence of investors and distributors, and in the long run may reduce the sale of products of those companies failing to meet such standards.

Furthermore, the speaker noted the importance of developing a dialogue aimed on concluding an international agreement on a free trade zone between Russia and China, thus enabling the two main trade partners in specialized machinery to develop regulations to reduce certain barriers to its trade.