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Taiwan’s Acer had previously confirmed that the company would suspend its computer hardware sales in the Russian Federation. But a recent journalist investigation shows these products still end up in Russian stores.
An Acer laptop – illustrative photo. Image credit: Raphael Brasileiro
This news comes from Reuters after reviewing customs data. Analysis showed that the Taiwan-based computer manufacturer Acer provided computer hardware worth at least $70.4 million to Russia between April 8, 2022, and March 31, 2023, despite previously announcing the suspension of its business in the country.
While Acer’s actions are not illegal, they differ from those of key Western competitors such as Dell and HP who halted shipments to Russia in February and April 2022, respectively, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Customs records obtained from a commercial trade data provider indicate that Acer’s equipment was supplied to Russia through its wholly-owned subsidiary registered in Switzerland, using various delivery services.
On February 25, 2022, Taiwan announced its participation in sanctions against Russia, requiring a special export permit for technological goods listed by the government.
Since the shipments originated from outside Taiwan, they did not violate the sanctions imposed by the Taiwanese government on Russia. Additionally, the items exported did not fall under any restrictions imposed by Switzerland’s sanctions regime, which mirrors that of the European Union.
However, on April 8 of the previous year, Acer stated that it would suspend its business in Russia. In response to inquiries regarding subsequent exports to Russia through its Swiss subsidiary, the Taiwanese company released a statement emphasizing their adherence to international regulations and trade laws governing exports to Russia.
They stated that the subsidiary had not shipped any laptops or desktops to Russia since April 8, but it had supplied a limited number of displays and accessories for civilian use, ensuring compliance with international sanctions.
Acer did not provide an explanation for why it continued to ship its products to Russia despite announcing the suspension of its business there.
Acer stated that it was possible for importers in Russia to source Acer devices from third countries.
According to consulting company IDC Russia, Acer accounted for 18.5% of all PCs sold in Russia in the fourth quarter of 2021, while HP and Dell together made up 20.8%.
These shipments highlight that, despite international sanctions aimed at restricting Russians’ access to technology and equipment, foreign-made goods remain available to consumers.
Russian customs data reveals that at least 744 shipments of Acer products entered Russia between April 8, 2022, and March 31, 2023, compared to 3,735 shipments in the previous year, with a total value of $244.3 million.
According to the data, shipments decreased by 71.1% in monetary terms, with laptops and PC monitors comprising the majority of the shipments.
Written by Alius Noreika
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