Russia is now the new frontier for Chinese smartphone makers

Chinese smartphone brands are gaining momentum in their Russia expansion efforts, according to a research report from Counterpoint.

As forerunners in this initiative, Xiaomi, which made its official debut in April this year after six months of operation through a distributor, is now the  fifth largest smartphone brand in Russia during Q3 this year, grew by 325% YoY. “Xiaomi was the fastest growing smartphone brand in Russia in both online as well as offline sales,” said Tarun Pathak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, in a statement. The firm is also expanding its offline retail expansion efforts in the country by setting up its first 24/7 outlet in Moscow.

Huawei and lesser-known Chinese brand Bright & Quick eclipsed Xiaomi with 11% and 5% market share, respectively. However, they are growing at a less, but not insignificant, YOY growth rate of 140% and 177%. Samsung and Apple took the top two spots.

What you get

Full access to all premium content and our full archives

Members'-only newsletters

Preferential access and discounts to all TechNode events

Direct access to the TechNode newsroom