Russian product labelling — officially Chestny Znak / Честный ЗНАК — is the digital labelling and traceability system that has become mandatory for companies shipping to the Russian Federation. This guide explains end to end what it is, which products it covers and how to complete your export without getting stuck at customs.
What is Russian product labelling?
It is a national system in which a unique DataMatrix code is printed on every product unit so the product can be traced from production to the consumer. The system is run by CRPT, the operator of Chestny Znak, to prevent counterfeiting and make the supply chain transparent. A product in scope cannot be imported into Russia, cleared through customs or sold on the shelf without being labelled.
Which products are in scope?
- Footwear, textiles and ready-to-wear
- Perfume and cosmetics
- Tyres and automotive products
- Dairy products, bottled water and beverages
- Tobacco products
- Cameras, medical devices and more
As of 2026 the scope keeps widening, with new categories such as light industry — workwear, gloves, belts and similar — being added. Establishing whether your product is in scope, through its customs (TN VED) code, is critical.
How does the process work?
- CRPT registration: your company and product records are created in the system.
- Code request: unique DataMatrix codes are obtained for your products.
- Labelling: the codes are printed onto the product or its packaging.
- Data reporting: production, shipping and sales movements are reported to the system.
Labelling, customs and certification: the whole picture
A successful export to Russia does not end with labelling. Customs procedures, EAC / GOST conformity documents and logistics planning all have to be handled correctly. Incomplete labelling, faulty certification or a wrong declaration can leave goods held at customs, attract heavy fines or force a return. Labelling, certification and shipping therefore have to advance in step with each other.
Solve labelling through a single partner
From our offices in Moscow, Istanbul and Podgorica we run the whole process on your behalf — from Chestny Znak registration to DataMatrix code generation, from labelling to data reporting. You focus only on your business. Explore our solutions or write to us for a free initial assessment. For our corporate identity and references, see the About Us page.
