“The sanctions have undoubtedly reshaped trade dynamics in the region, but they have also created new opportunities. Russian businesses are actively seeking alternative suppliers, especially from friendly and emerging markets.”

TFT: ITE has been operating in the Russian market since 1991. Please tell our readers about the ITE Group, how it was formed, the challenges faced and how it is transforming the trade fair industry in Russia.

DZ: ITE Group has been a cornerstone of the Russian exhibition industry for over three decades. Founded in 1991 during a period of significant economic transformation, our mission was clear: to foster international trade by creating world-class business platforms across key sectors. Over the years, we have navigated economic fluctuations, evolving market conditions, and geopolitical complexities with adaptability and a focused approach. Today, ITE Group has evolved into an Ecosystem, organising over 30 leading B2B events annually across a wide spectrum of industries, including exhibitions, summits, conferences, and educational programmes, all powered by our online platform ITE Connect. Every year, we host over 10,000 international exhibitors and attract more than half a million professional visitors. Our commitment to delivering measurable value through curated matchmaking, digital innovation, and deep sector expertise has helped transform exhibitions in Russia and CIS into high-impact, business-first environments.

TFT: What is the ITE Connect platform? How is it helping the Exhibitors and Visitors?

DZ: ITE Connect is our proprietary business networking community and matchmaking platform designed to enhance ROI for exhibitors and streamline sourcing for buyers. Through ITE Connect, exhibitors gain direct access to pre-qualified buyers before the show, enabling them to arrange meetings, promote new products, conduct webinars and build lasting commercial relationships. For visitors, the platform offers tools to navigate the exhibition efficiently, discover relevant suppliers, and explore curated content throughout the year. It turns a 4-day exhibition into a 365-day opportunity.

TFT: Russia has faced many sanctions in recent times. Please tell us how it has impacted the exhibition environment in Russia?

DZ: The sanctions have undoubtedly reshaped trade dynamics in the region, but they have also created new opportunities. Russian businesses are actively seeking alternative suppliers, especially from friendly and emerging markets. This shift has led to a renewed appetite for exhibitions as critical sourcing platforms. At ITE Group, we’ve seen increased participation from countries across Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. The role of exhibitions as trusted avenues for commercial dialogue, innovation discovery, and market entry has only grown stronger in this environment.

TFT: With ITE Group organizing over 30 industry-leading events annually, which sectors or event formats do you see as most promising for growth in Russia?

DZ: We see significant growth in sectors linked to domestic production, import substitution, and infrastructure development. These include food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, packaging, logistics, construction, and manufacturing technologies. Events in the ITE Ecosystem that go beyond a showcase offering educational content, matchmaking, and hands-on demos are proving particularly effective. High-level conference models and hosted buyer programmes are also gaining momentum as companies seek more qualified, results-oriented participation.

TFT: What are the strategies that you apply before planning an exhibition in a particular area? Whether it is the footfall or the environment provided by the Government?

DZ: We take a data-driven approach to planning. Before launching or expanding any event, we conduct deep market research, assess supply and demand gaps, analyse competitor events, and engage with trade associations and key stakeholders. While visitor footfall is important, we prioritise quality over quantity, focusing on decision-makers with purchasing power. Government support and ease of doing business are also crucial, especially when attracting international participation. We collaborate closely with local authorities to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.

TFT: How can an international exhibitor participate in your exhibitions? What are the facilities provided by ITE Group for international exhibitors?

DZ: International exhibitors are a vital part of our shows. Participating is straightforward—our multilingual international sales teams assist with stand selection, logistics, travel planning, and visa support. We also offer marketing and promotional opportunities pre-event, during and post-event, as well as 365 days a year through our ITE Connect platform. Our buyer engagement and matchmaking programmes ensure that every international exhibitor meets the right audience from day one.

TFT: India is an emerging market with significant potential. Are there any future plans of ITE Group in India?

DZ: Absolutely. India is a key partner for Russia and a major focus for ITE Group. We’ve been increasing our outreach to Indian exporters across various sectors, including food processing, pharmaceutical ingredients, packaging, and construction materials. We have an office in India, which is actively working with Indian chambers, export councils, and trade bodies to build long-term partnerships. India is not just a source of high-quality products; it’s a strategic player in the evolving global supply chain, and we see great synergy ahead.

TFT: In this geopolitical scenario there is a perspective that Russia is totally isolated. What is your take on this?

DZ: This perception does not reflect the reality on the ground. While Russia’s trade dynamics have shifted, the country is far from isolated. In fact, we are witnessing stronger business ties with countries across Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa. Our exhibitions reflect this trend—more international companies are seeing Russia as a market of opportunity, especially in sectors where demand is growing and competition is limited. Trade finds a way, and exhibitions are one of the most resilient and adaptive platforms to support that.

TFT: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to our readers?

DZ: Russia is open for business, and our exhibitions, conferences and digital platforms to provide a significant opportunity for global partners aiming to expand in this distinctive market.

For forward-thinking companies seeking new opportunities, there has never been a more strategic time to explore the Russian market, and ITE Group’s exhibitions offer the ideal launchpad for your expansion. We are here to guide, support, and connect you to the right people because success starts with the right conversation.