Payment for Chinese supplies is one of the most discussed topics among Russian and Kazakh importers after 2022. Traditional SWIFT schemes became more complex, but alternative channels emerged. Here are the current options for paying for building materials (AAC/ALC).
Telegraphic transfer (T/T). The most common method. Scheme: 30% deposit after contract signing, 70% balance after cargo readiness and provision of document copies (B/L, invoice, packing list). Russian importers can make CNY transfers through banks with Chinese correspondent accounts (Bank of China Moscow, IS Bank, Tinkoff, Tochka). Fee — 0.1–0.5% + fixed transfer fee ($15–50). Credit time — 1–3 working days.
Letter of credit (L/C). Safer for the buyer: bank opens L/C in favor of Chinese supplier, funds released only after full shipping document set. Suitable for large batches (from $50,000). Drawbacks: higher bank fees (1–3%), longer setup (1–2 weeks), not all Chinese factories accept L/C. CNY L/C available for Russian buyers through banks with Chinese correspondent accounts.
Transit payments through third countries. Common scheme: payment via a company in UAE (Dubai), Hong Kong, Singapore or Kazakhstan. Pros: channel stability, USD/EUR payment possible. Cons: extra intermediary fee (1–3%), transit contract required, currency control risks for fund repatriation to Russia. Important: all schemes must comply with your country currency control requirements.
Currency control in Russia. For imports over 600,000 RUB (equivalent), the contract must be registered with the bank. Bank verifies: delivery terms, payment conditions, payment purpose matching currency operation code. Penalties for delivery delay or missing documents (up to 1% of contract value). Recommend agreeing all contract terms with the bank in advance.
Safety recommendations. (1) Never pay 100% upfront to a new supplier — standard is 30/70. (2) Require official contract with seal and authorized signature. (3) Verify Chinese company registration (business license) through state registries. (4) For first shipment use pre-shipment inspection (we provide this service). (5) All payments only to the supplier company official bank account, never personal accounts.
