Chinese companies cross into Russia

Synopsis

In Eastern Siberia, right on Russia's border with China, hundreds of Chinese workers labor for Chinese Timber firms Shinton and Haa. This workforce represents the Vanguard of a significant influx of Chinese companies into the Russian Far East, driven by the region's abundant resources like wood, agricultural land, and oil and gas, which are essential for China's rapidly growing economy. The Russian government, wary of the demographic imbalance with over 100 million people in China's three northeastern provinces compared to just 6 million in the Far Eastern federal district, has historically restricted Chinese operations. Despite these challenges, including the closure of a key border crossing just two years after the companies established their plants, the relationship is evolving. With Western sanctions following the annexation of Crimea, Russia seeks closer ties with China, evidenced by plans for a new bridge to facilitate rail freight transport and increased Chinese tourism in the region.