The Russian Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media is drafting a regulation that forces registration of IMEI numbers for every smartphone imported without customs clearance. Owners will have exactly fourteen days from purchase to submit their device via the "Gosuslugi" portal.

Failure to meet the deadline will result in Russian mobile operators cutting off service to unregistered phones. Devices that were activated in networks before April 2027 are exempt and will continue to work. Officially imported phones will be added to the unified database automatically, sparing legitimate buyers any hassle.

Analysts predict the measure could wipe out up to 70 % of grey‑market sellers, while prices for certain models may climb as much as 40 % due to tighter customs enforcement and reduced illegal supply.