Rise in export prices in March will affect payment dynamics during Q2 - Central Bank of Russia

MOSCOW. April 9 (Interfax) - The increase in world prices for major export commodities that occurred in March will affect payment dynamics with a delay during Q2 2026, according to a commentary from the Central Bank of Russia.

"The rise in export prices due to the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East will affect payment dynamics closer to the middle of the second quarter," the CBR said.

The amount of incoming payments processed through the Central Bank decreased 8.1% in March compared to the average level of Q4 2025. Receipts decreased 5.0% in Q1 overall. The main contribution to the decline in payments continues to come from export-oriented industries. An increase in receipts was recorded only in the group of investment demand industries, the CBR said.

Receipts, excluding mining, petroleum products and public administration, decreased 2.6% in March and 0.1% in Q1.

Financial flows in external demand industries decreased 19% last month and 13.5% in Q1.

Incoming payments in consumer demand industries decreased 6.4% in March and 1.5% in Q1.

Receipts in investment demand industries increased 6.6% in March and 2.4% in Q1.

Incoming payments in intermediate demand industries decreased 9.8% over the month and 5.8% in Q1.