Facing RussiasIn order to crack down on tax evasion, the customs and tax departments are now strictly examining the operation of buying export declarations. If the behavior of buying export declarations is discovered, the regulatory authorities will require tax replenishment (even a 2% tax rate may be a considerable amount). In addition, fines may also be imposed on the relevant responsible parties.complex challenges, enterprises urgently need effective strategies to ensure smooth and secure cash flow. This article provides a series of solutions, from the flexible services of border banks to the practical operations of barter trade, and the exploration of various alternative settlement methods, helping you move forward steadily in international trade. Below are some more specific suggestions and additions:

Utilizing Border Banks

Border banks typically have more experience in handling trade settlements related to Russia and can provide relatively flexible services:

• Consult specific banks: Such as Hunchun Bank, Heilongjiang Suifenhe Rural Commercial Bank, Harbin Bank, Longjiang Bank, Heihe Rural Commercial Bank, Jilin Hunchun Rural Commercial Bank, Jilin Dunhua Rural Commercial Bank, Jilin Bank, Changchun Rural Commercial Bank, Changchun Development Bank, Yanbian Rural Commercial Bank, Dongning Rural Commercial Bank, Manzhouli Bank, etc. Contact the international business departments of these banks to understand their specific settlement services and requirements.
• Account opening and usage: Open accounts with these banks to ensure prompt handling of settlement transactions related to Russia.

VTB Shanghai Branch

Although VTB Banks Shanghai branch is on the SDN list, it can still be considered as an option:

• Risk assessment: A comprehensive risk assessment is required when using VTB Bank, especially regarding potential fund freezes or settlement difficulties due to sanctions.
• Operate in compliance: Ensure compliance in all transactions to avoid legal issues arising from sanctions.

3. Barter trade

Conduct trade settlements through barter transactions:

• Find suitable barter platforms: Utilize barter platforms to identify appropriate barter trading counterparts.
• Cooperative importers: Seek importers willing to engage in barter trade to ensure mutual demand and supply alignment.

Other Solutions

In addition to the above methods, the following approaches can also be considered:

Using RMB Settlement

• Offshore RMB accounts: Open RMB accounts domestically or offshore to conduct settlements in RMB, circumventing U.S. export control issues.

Overseas third-party payment platforms

• Electronic payment platforms: Use international payment platforms such as PayPal, Skrill, and Wise for settlements, which offer flexibility despite potential service fees.
• Cryptocurrency: Consider using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum for settlements under legal and compliant conditions, while being mindful of their volatility and legal risks.

Strengthen communication with customers

• Explain settlement issues: Communicate thoroughly with Russian clients about settlement difficulties and seek mutually acceptable solutions.
• Flexibly adjust settlement methods: Adapt settlement methods flexibly based on the clients actual situation and settlement convenience, such as using third-party payments or RMB settlements.

Seek professional assistance

• Consult professional institutions: Seek assistance from international trade consulting firms, professional lawyers, or financial advisors to obtain targeted solutions.
• Join industry associationsJoin international trade industry associations to access the latest industry information and resources, and find solutions to settlement difficulties.

In summary, when dealing with settlement difficulties in Russia, it is necessary to flexibly apply various solutions while comprehensively considering compliance, cost, and convenience. By consulting professional institutions and working closely with banks and clients, more feasible and sustainable settlement solutions can be found. Let our professional guidance and abundant resources help your company identify the most suitable settlement solution. Take action now and work with us to optimize your international settlement process, ensuring smooth business operations and fund security.