Being the only BRIC country in Europe, Russia has long been seen as one of the most promising emerging markets. However, the last years brought turbulent times, with a dramatic drop in oil prices and Western sanctions against Russia. Still, the large and resource-rich market provides opportunities for Western companies which are analysed in a speech and a discussion. In his role as Senior Consultant Russia + CIS, Michael Kühn advises Swiss companies in their international business development in this region. He is a member of the board of the Joint Chamber of Commerce Switzerland-Russia/CIS.