Among those to speak at the Made in Russia Forum was Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Mikhail Mishustin, who drew attention to a new tool for exporters. The Single Window is a comprehensive digital platform developed by the Russian Export Center, which, as Mishustin noted, was launched two weeks ago. “The system will operate as an online one-stop-shop for businesses looking to access government services enabling them to enter the international market. This is a crucial step forward. Now exporters will be able to go online to submit an application to confirm a zero rate of VAT, or submit an application to participate in expos and business missions. They will also be able to use the platform to obtain a certificate of free sale, which confirms that a product was made in accordance with Russian law, and now can be sold or purchased anywhere in Russia. These and other government services together form the first step towards enabling exporters to go paperless. It will help Russian entrepreneurs save a substantial amount time and effort,” he said. Mishustin also noted that the REC will continue to expand its range of digital services aimed at making Russian exporters more competitive on the global market. The organization will work to develop the system further and offer new services on the platform over time, including financial services such as insurance.
“Currently, support is provided by a large number of different organizations, ranging from national and regional government bodies to development institutions. And each place has its own form of regulation. I can highlight the specific steps we are taking to solve this problem. The path we have chosen is one where we remove barriers. Reducing red tape and focusing on the customer are the key principles underpinning our work. Fully digitalizing our communications with businesses will enable us to comprehensively solve the problems at hand. This Single Window for exporters is a one-stop shop of sorts, offering entrepreneurs the convenience of applying for export-related services online. This year we have digitalized what were the most paper-intensive services, such as confirmation of 0% VAT. A range of services will be added in the coming year, with the most anticipated one being registration on e-commerce platforms,” said REC General Director Veronika Nikishina.
