This article is concerned with the study of the factors, underlying the decision of Russian companies to relocate production units to foreign countries and form global value-added chains (GVACs). It is proposed by the authors to consider the emergence of economic interests in relocation from the standpoint of synthesis of the concept of integration based on the natural advantages and the concept of GVAC. A high potential for the development of cooperation by Russian companies is noted herein, in particular, in the agro-industrial complex, and at the same time, there is a limited interest of Russian business in the integration processes in the EAEU format. The factors that hinder the expansion of Russian business to the partner countries in the EAEU, as well as the risks of deepening the cooperation ties, are singled out. © 2019 ASSA.