The 4th International Forum of Special Economic Zones Concludes in Moscow

With over 800 in-person attendees, more than 1,000 online viewers, 13 signed agreements, and the release of two national rankings for Special Economic Zones (SEZs), the 4th International Forum of Special Economic Zones—held in Moscow on October 21–22—has successfully concluded.

The forum was organized by the Association of Clusters, Technology Parks, and SEZs of Russia, in partnership with the Technopolis Moscow SEZ, with support from the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation and the Moscow Government.

Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak sent a welcoming address to the participants. Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov took part in the plenary session, which focused on technological leadership and international cooperation.

Key outcomes of the forum:

▪️ Investments. By the end of 2025, cumulative investments by residents of Russian SEZs exceeded 3.8 trillion rubles, with more than 120,000 jobs created.

▪️ International Cooperation. Representatives from six countries discussed the development of industrial cooperation, joint investment projects, and collaboration among SEZs within the BRICS nations.

▪️ Agreements. 13 cooperation agreements were signed between development institutions, management companies, educational organizations, and industrial enterprises.

▪️ National Rankings. The results of the 10th National Ranking of Investment Attractiveness and the 4th National Ranking of Sustainable Development for Russian SEZs were unveiled.

▪️ Industrial Exhibition. SEZ residents showcased innovations in sectors including mechanical engineering, medicine, energy, and electronics. Mikhail Labudin, Director of the Association of Clusters, Technology Parks and SEZs of Russia:

"Russia’s special economic zones (SEZs) have built a substantial investment base, and our current objective is to maximize the returns from the infrastructure already in place. During the forum, we discussed concrete mechanisms for developing industrial production, unveiled the results of two national rankings, and signed 13 agreements—including several with international partners. For the Association, it is crucial that these agreements lead to tangible outcomes, such as new investment projects, joint manufacturing ventures, and expanded cooperation among residents. Meanwhile, our national rankings make it possible to evaluate the efficiency of these sites, compare management strategies, and identify paths for future development. These are precisely the tools needed to shift the focus from the quantitative growth of SEZs to enhancing the effectiveness of their operations."