Mikko Melasniemi, director of Finnish Logistic Association speaks about difficulties of the Russian market
There are special requirements to the enterprises dealing with the field of logistics. And it is a big challenge for Russia. Measured trouble-free work during the whole year is of special importance for Finland. Even though in earlier 60-s, before the beginning of winter a so-called "full yard" of raw material was delivered into the country, which was enough till spring. Then delivery started again. Currently the warehouse turnover has been accelerated, as the companies do not wish to become attached to non-finished manufacture. Therefore the uninterrupted operation of transportations under any weather conditions becomes more and more important. Other special requirement is availability of a network of terminals. We feel lack of it for now. But this is, definitely, matter of private investments. There is also lack of the information about the location of the warehouses, and about their capacities. We have to make the routes ourselves. Besides the policy of double tariffs on the Russian railway is an obstacle for entering the Russian market. Another problem Finland has to meet concerns airline transportations. Now we are engaged in active process of trade cooperation with the countries of Asia. However all airline transportations are “clung’ to Russia. Now tariffs for airline transportations are so high that very often it becomes unprofitable to carry out transportations. The established tariffs seem over high and heavy.
Nevertheless, to my mind, the Finnish investments are constantly growing. Referring to official statistics, for the last few years the growth of investments made by us grew by 30%. More than 200 enterprises put their investments into the Russian economy. Among these companies are Onninen, Stockman, Stora Enso and others. I would like to note, that the Finnish business in Russia is not only for purchasing the enterprises, but also for building factories.
Finland has big hopes for Russia. Russia is our biggest trading partner. I hope, that Russia will follow China’a experience regarding increase in manufacture and a level of consumer ability. Russian economy grows, and our enterprises have special interest for this market.
Nevertheless, to my mind, the Finnish investments are constantly growing. Referring to official statistics, for the last few years the growth of investments made by us grew by 30%. More than 200 enterprises put their investments into the Russian economy. Among these companies are Onninen, Stockman, Stora Enso and others. I would like to note, that the Finnish business in Russia is not only for purchasing the enterprises, but also for building factories.
Finland has big hopes for Russia. Russia is our biggest trading partner. I hope, that Russia will follow China’a experience regarding increase in manufacture and a level of consumer ability. Russian economy grows, and our enterprises have special interest for this market.