The Documentary Podcast Made in Russia: The Kremlin’s economic rebrand
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Dec 4, 2025 Evgeny Pudovkin, an insightful economics commentator, and Tim Bowler, a military and economy expert, dive into how sanctions have reshaped Russia’s economy. Pudovkin reveals the state’s push for patriotic consumerism and the rebranding of former Western chains. Bowler discusses the shadowy tactics behind Russia's energy exports and evaluates its sustainability amidst economic pressures. They explore consumer responses to limited choices and the emergence of a new Russia-China partnership, shedding light on an evolving landscape.
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Patriotic Consumption Versus Market Reality
- Russia has pushed a "buy Russian" campaign to project self-sufficiency after Western firms left following the Ukraine invasion.
- Market forces still favor quality and imports, so the campaign is more propaganda than full economic replacement.
Assembly Makes Products 'Russian'
- Many Russian 'Russian-made' laptops and goods are assembled locally from imported components, often Chinese.
- This creates a Russified retail appearance without true domestic high-tech production.
Western Brands Rebranded Locally
- Russian businessmen took over Western assets and rebranded them with near-identical local names and products.
- Examples include McDonald's becoming Vkusnei Tochka and Coca-Cola styled as Dobrikola with similar logos and menus.