Poor Perception of Russian Quality a Stumbling Block – Gurin

During an address to the 10th Annual Russian Economic Forum in London, Amtel-Vredestein CEO Alexei Gurin pointed to Russia’s poor quality image as a major stumbling block to diversification, and called for President Putin to identify and support industries outside the energy sector in which Russia could become a quality producer. Amongst those industries suggested was the automotive sector.

Gurin believes that Russia needs to stop its sole orientation towards the oil or raw materials export sector and develop other industries with high export potential and domestic competitiveness which can act as ‘ambassadors’ for Russian-made products – and improve government taxation, customs and industrial policies for those who invest in producing quality, premium, competitive and ‘exportable’ Russian goods.

Amtel-Vredestein began manufacturing Vredestein tyres for export to Europe at its Kirov factory in Russia last year. “We shipped 335,000 tyres last year. This year we plan to more than double that number. This is in addition to 500,000 Amtel tyres we export to other CIS countries,” said Mr. Gurin.

“I can envision a day when products ‘Made in Russia’ will inspire admiration rather than ridicule,” he added.