Foreign companies seeking to re-enter the Russian market must actively contribute to the lifting of international sanctions, according to First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. He made the statement on June 18 at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

Manturov stated that only after demonstrating a commitment to reversing the sanctions will Russia be open to discussing their return.

Earlier, the Minister of Industry and Trade, Anton Alikhanov, indicated that discussions regarding specific conditions for the return of foreign companies are premature while sanctions remain in place.

However, opinions within Russia are divided. Rostelecom President Mikhail Oseevsky expressed strong opposition to allowing foreign companies back into the market. He argued that the abrupt departure of European and American companies has eroded trust, and their products are no longer needed.

Oseevsky also raised concerns about the increasing presence of Chinese companies, who are already competitive through parallel imports. He warned that lifting sanctions could lead to a market dominated by Chinese products, posing a challenge to domestic industries.