Russia accelerates automation to tackle workforce shortfall
Russia is planning to expedite the country's technological development. Machines are intended to alleviate the workforce shortfall. The government is investing in automation and implementing a system that will incentivise companies to substitute human workers with machines.
What do you need to know?
- Russia plans to increase the number of robots in industry: President Vladimir Putin has demanded that Russia be among the top 25 countries globally concerning robot usage. At present, the country has only 14,382 machines.
- Workforce shortfall in Russia: According to studies by the Higher School of Economics, Russia requires 2.6 million workers, prompting officials to invest in automation.
- Financial support for companies: The Ministry of Industry and Trade will reimburse companies 20 per cent of the costs of purchasing and implementing robots, a programme expected to last five years and cost about 350 billion rubles (4 billion euros).
Why is Russia focusing on robots?
Senator Sergei Muratov, vice-chairman of the Federation Council's Committee on Defence and Security, voiced his support for automation, emphasising that robots do not face the adaptation issues that often affect migrants.
He also added that as an industrialist, he would invest money in automation and robotics today rather than in creating adaptation centres for foreigners. The senator noted a broad scepticism about the effectiveness of adaptation programmes for migrants. He also pointed out that Russia lags behind other countries in terms of automation, with only 19 robots per 10,000 workers, compared to the global average of 162.
What are Russia's future plans?
In June 2024, President Putin demanded that Russia rapidly become a leading country in terms of robot usage. To achieve this, over 100,000 machines are planned to be introduced into the workforce. Currently, these technologies are being utilised in some defence industry plants in Kurgan, Novosibirsk, and Perm.
Will Russia achieve its goals?
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak emphasised that robotisation and the development of artificial intelligence are crucial for long-term economic growth. Russian authorities have announced that increasing the number of robots in enterprises to 99,325 by 2030 is one of the principal goals. The Ministry of Industry and Trade plans to reimburse companies 20 per cent of the costs of purchasing and implementing robots, which is aimed at supporting this ambitious plan.
