Presentation of AEB annual survey’s results 'Strategies and prospects for European companies in Russia 2017'

On May 23 2018, AEB North-Western Regional Committee together with International Institute of Marketing and Social Research “GfK Rus” presented the results of the AEB annual survey 'Strategies and Prospects for European companies in Russia 2017'. The event was hosted by the Consulate General of Finland in Saint- Petersburg. The key speakers at the presentation were: Mr. Andreas Bitzi, AEB North-Western Regional Committee Chairman, Mr. Stuart Lawson, AEB Finance & Investments Committee Chairman, and Mr. Alexander Demidov, GfK-Rus Managing Director.

The AEB survey analyses the comfort level of European businesses operating in Russia, evaluating the business environment and country’s investment climate.

Most of the respondents asked feel confident about their future in Russia. They continue to believe in the Russian market and good prospects. The respondents balanced business operations and improved operating performance in 2017. The European companies increased sales steadily and made more profits last year. But the weak growth of the Russian economy in 2017 adds uncertainty.

The survey shows that the sanctions against Russia and the results of the US elections have produced a negative impact on the European companies in Russia. The share of the respondents who negatively assessed the impact of the sanctions increased in 2017. As for the Russian presidential elections, most of the respondents do not expect any change in the Russian economic policy.  

The share of the respondents who expect investment cuts in Russia increased from 11% in 2017 to 36% in 2018. It illustrates that the investment activity in Russia will probably slow down in 2018.

The long-term (6-10 years) and middle-term (3-5 years) economic prospects of Russia remain at the high level. As for the short-term economic prospects, most of the respondents expect that the Russian economy will stagnate or grow slowly.

It is useful to visit this event to meet with AEB experts and local consulting companies.

The organizer’s contact details are available on the website - http://www.aebrus.ru/en/our-contacts/