Russia expands foreign-requirement approval rules for strategic companies

Strategic Russian joint-stock companies and their subsidiaries must obtain approval from an authorised Russian agency for certain actions required by foreign legislation. Vladimir Putin signed the decree on October 15.

Previously, the procedure applied to demands from foreign state authorities, international organisations, associations of states and their regulatory or oversight bodies. An obligation imposed directly by another country's legislation now also triggers the approval requirement.

The procedure covers companies on the presidential list of strategic enterprises and strategic joint-stock companies, along with their subsidiaries. Prior approval must come from a federal executive authority empowered by the Russian government.

Approval is required for providing information about company activities. Exceptions remain for information subject to disclosure under Russian legislation and information provided in connection with the issuance, trading or acquisition of securities.

Without prior consent, covered companies also cannot change contracts with foreign counterparties or other documents concerning their commercial policies abroad.

Another covered category is the disposal of stakes in foreign organisations, rights to conduct business in other countries and real estate located abroad.

Decree No. 750 amends decree No. 1285 of September 11, 2012. The new provisions took effect on the day of signing, October 15, 2026.