Infrastructure, AI, and technological sovereignty: how Russia’s IT industry is developing
What role do Russian companies play in creating innovative technological solutions that successfully compete with foreign counterparts and influence society? These topics were discussed by experts during the plenary session "Achievements. Challenges. Priorities", which was held at the National Centre RUSSIA as part of the IT Forum "Digital Solutions 2025".
"Digitalisation has become part of our lives. We have become so used to it that at some point we simply stopped noticing it. Today, we live in a world where, if something doesn’t happen in real time or online, we are surprised. An entire generation has grown up that cannot imagine receiving a service with any delay. This is a given, something we should not just accept but build upon. We shop on marketplaces without hesitation, sign documents with electronic signatures, and apply for certificates digitally," said the Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Staff of the Government Executive Office of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Grigorenko.
He noted that digital services and products have become the new standard of convenience, comfort and quality. Yet, behind all this lies another side of digitalisation — its "backstage". According to him, the Forum brings together exactly those who create it — specialists whose work often goes unnoticed, but without whom digitalisation would be impossible. This includes domestic infrastructure, software and artificial intelligence. Everything that has already been achieved in the country’s digital transformation is the result of joint efforts by the state and business. These achievements, as well as the challenges facing the country, are shared. Therefore, building this "back end" for further development must also be a joint effort, Dmitry Grigorenko added.
Representatives of the industry spoke about the successes of Russian business in IT in 2025 during the plenary session. CEO of MTS, Inessa Galaktionova, noted that the telecom sector had demonstrated solid results in three areas: developing communication infrastructure in the regions, advancing innovation, and strengthening technological sovereignty.
"In terms of communications development, operators have established constructive cooperation with regional authorities. Together, they have defined the formats for building and expanding network coverage for motorways and populated areas. Many regions joined co-financing projects and provided infrastructure support. Over the past three years, the industry has reinvested around 30 billion rubles in regional infrastructure development <...> As for innovation, this year saw the launch of numerous products and solutions related to AI. We have moved from discussions to practical application: AI is being actively integrated into operators’ systems, including infrastructure management. This opens up new opportunities for users and helps companies optimise their costs <...> The third area is technological sovereignty. This year has been a breakthrough – Russian base stations produced domestically have entered the market. Around a hundred such stations are already operating under load in various regions and climates. Russian companies have achieved strong results, and our equipment has attracted interest from partners in neighbouring countries – testing is now underway," she said.
Director of 1C, Boris Nuraliev, spoke about the development of domestic software. According to him, the main problem facing the industry is the economic slowdown, which reduces automation budgets, limits opportunities for small businesses, and leads to growing use of free and pirated ERP systems. Software exports are complicated by organisational and political challenges, while intense competition in the market for operating systems and ERP solutions creates additional difficulties. He noted that the priority remains the creation of world-class software, the development of domestic solutions based on import substitution and the digital economy. It is also essential that the state continue supporting customers who choose domestic software, and that large systems maintain open and stable interfaces to ensure effective functioning of the entire ecosystem.
"At the same time, software remains the fastest-growing segment of the industry. Over the past six months, it has grown by 33%. We have received substantial state support in the form of tax incentives, government-funded university places, digital departments and school training. In many social and commercial sectors, the level of digitalisation in Russia is higher than in other countries. For example, it has become easier to make a doctor’s appointment; users have access to domestic search engines, antivirus software, ERP systems and messengers. Meanwhile, companies pay high salaries and taxes, and some have gone public," the expert added.
A strong scientific and technological foundation has been established for the development of domestic artificial intelligence, noted the President of T-Technology, Stanislav Bliznyuk. According to him, there are not many countries in the world capable of carrying out advanced R&D and maintaining technological sovereignty – and Russia is among them. Companies are investing in education and research, and some have already developed their own AI models that are producing results – being integrated into services and products that bring benefits across diverse areas, from fintech to agronomy and construction.
"Major technology companies are actively engaging with one another, forming a self-regulating system. AI alliances are being created to establish standards, share expertise and help develop common principles. Among the challenges the industry faces are high capital costs, resource constraints and technology exports. It is important to recognise that while high-quality products are being developed in Russia, the domestic market remains limited in capacity. Therefore, expanding the use of artificial intelligence in new industries, training companies and encouraging the use of AI in everyday operations is crucial. Exporting these solutions will help broaden their audience and increase efficiency. A priority is to assess the long-term impact of AI applications. Within the framework of the alliance, major players have developed a methodology to correctly evaluate results. Equally important are investments in education and science: technology companies should integrate AI into educational programmes, offer internships and practical assignments for students to strengthen the talent development system," said Stanislav Bliznyuk.
The IT Forum "Digital Solutions" is being held for the first time by the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media with the support of the Government. The event brings together leading representatives of Russia’s IT business and public authorities for dialogue across all areas of digital transformation. The business programme includes more than 90 sessions featuring over 600 speakers.
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Visitors can explore innovative products and services that are already shaping the country’s digital future.
Russia’s IT industry has been leading in growth among all major sectors by key indicators over the past five years.
