Russian Government Approves Creative Economy Development Strategy Through 2036

A new strategic document sets out the main priorities for the development of Russia’s creative economy through 2036. The corresponding order was signed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

Creative industries include, among other sectors, animation, music, film, television, software development, publishing, architecture and urban planning, advertising, fashion, and design.

Between 2020 and 2025, the gross value added generated by the creative industries increased by 55.8%. More than 4.5 million people are employed across various sectors of the creative economy.

Under the strategy, the share of the creative economy in Russia’s GDP is expected to increase from 4.2% in 2025 to 7.7% by 2036. The number of companies and individual entrepreneurs operating in the creative economy is expected to grow by 22% compared with 2025.

To achieve these objectives, the strategy provides for the development of the necessary regional infrastructure, including specialised venues, development institutions, and creative clusters.

Particular attention is given to workforce development. Key priorities include practice-oriented education, project-based learning, internships and mentoring, as well as mechanisms enabling working professionals to update their skills and competencies in a timely manner.

The strategy also provides for the development of mechanisms to combat the unlawful use of copyrighted works and related rights. Speaking about intellectual property, Mikhail Mishustin noted the existing difficulties in protecting Russian trademarks in a number of foreign countries and emphasised the importance of commercialising intellectual property in order to strengthen the resilience and investment appeal of the creative industries.

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has been tasked with developing the measures required for the further growth of the creative economy and with personally overseeing the implementation of the strategy.