Trade with Russia and its importance for Finnish companies

Abstract

Finland s trade with Russia has grown rapidly in recent years, and since the turn of the millennium Russia has once again become one of our largest trading partners. Russia is an important export market for Finland, particularly for those companies and industries whose operations are otherwise largely focused on the domestic market. The present significance of exports to Russia is, however, considerably less than during the Soviet era. Imports from Russia are concentrated on just a few companies and industries, although for them Russia represents an important source of raw materials. This article examines recent developments in trade between Finland and Russia, its special features and the significance of this trade for Finnish companies. Some attention is also given to the corporate structure of trade with Russia.