The European Union is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia, which includes a ban on the sale of game consoles. According to the head of EU foreign policy, CAI Kallas, the Sony PlayStation and Microsoft Xbox consoles are used to manage drones. These restrictions are set to be introduced on February 22 as part of the 16th package of sanctions.
Despite the fact that major game console manufacturers such as Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo ceased sales in Russia in March 2022, the new ban targets merchants from EU countries who supply devices, including used ones, that fall under the sanctions.
China has emerged as the largest supplier of game consoles to Russia, with sales exceeding $120 million in 2024, a significant increase from the $30 million in 2022 when Western companies started scaling back operations in the Russian market.
The general director of Achivka-Import company and head of the Russian Association of Distributors and Importers of Video Games, Yasha Haddazhi, pointed out that no EU countries produce game consoles. He emphasized that the devices imported into Russia do not pass through the EU, questioning the effectiveness of these measures within the video game industry.
Alongside the console ban, the new sanctions will also target chemicals used in Russian industry and impose restrictions on the import of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Despite previous bans on pipeline gas and oil imports from Russia, EU purchases of Russian LNG hit record levels in 2024.
Another aspect of the sanctions package involves limiting the import of Russian aluminum. Trade Data Monitor reports that in 2024, the EU imported over 130 thousand tons of aluminum from Russia, equating to about 6% of the total volume. It remains uncertain whether a complete ban or the imposition of duties that render deliveries unfeasible will be enacted.