A new trend of 2025 is the export of Russian cybersecurity technologies. This is driven not only by the proactive stance of domestic developers but also by expanding trade relations with the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
These regions are showing demand for Russian expertise in SOC center creation, cybersecurity service models, network security solutions, access management, secure development, cyber drills, and cyber training grounds. According to the Ministry of Digital Development, cybersecurity is becoming one of the most important non-commodity export sectors for Russia.
What are the prospects for the international growth of this sector?

In partnership with RUSSOFT
Global geopolitical changes since 2022 have forced many Russian IT companies to revise their strategies. Redirecting exports from traditional Western markets to Asia and the Middle East has become not just a trend but a necessity for survival and growth.
Growing interest in technological sovereignty from friendly nations aiming to reduce reliance on Western tech has opened new opportunities for Russian developers.
After a temporary decline in 2022, Russian software exports are now growing steadily and are expected to accelerate in 2025. With the domestic market limited in capacity, international demand is essential to justify investment in innovative products.
Experts highlight Central Asia as a highly promising region for Russian IT companies. Its IT sector is growing rapidly, backed by digitalization efforts across government, agriculture, and industry. Economic advantages (tax incentives for tech firms, low labor costs, functional IT parks) and minimal language or cultural barriers create strong potential for Russian tech solutions.

The deadline for replacing foreign software in critical infrastructure has passed, yet key systems remain only partially substituted. According to market analysts, this transition will continue throughout the year, especially in 20% of public sector organizations.
The transition is slowest in niche industrial sectors, hindered by compatibility issues and the proliferation of similar solutions. Many companies are developing their own verticals to gradually offload core IT systems.
While regulators acknowledge the lack of suitable Russian solutions as a reason for delays, they are also discussing enforcement measures to accelerate the full transition.
— What import substitution approaches have proven most effective?
— What is in demand in industrial sectors? Are there industry-specific requirements?
— What regulatory actions could streamline the domestic software and electronics market?
— Are Russian developers managing to deliver integrated software solutions?
— What is the demand for software-hardware systems?
— What is the outlook for the domestic hardware market, and can world-class solutions emerge?
— What is the export potential of software and integrated systems?

According to the Ministry of Digital Development, Russian cybersecurity solutions account for 91% of the domestic market. This growth is driven largely by the public sector and large enterprises. However, SMEs are also undergoing digital transformation and handle sensitive customer data.
How secure is the IT infrastructure of SMEs? What steps are they taking to improve cybersecurity? Are they capable of meeting regulatory requirements? What can cybersecurity providers offer to help?
— Key cybersecurity risks in the SME segment
— Maturity of IT infrastructure in small and medium businesses
— Regulatory landscape: how can SMEs navigate complex cybersecurity standards?
— Essential technical and organizational measures to improve protection
— Government support and incentive programs

Russia’s gaming industry is undergoing a qualitative transformation and scaling phase. In light of geopolitical tensions and changes in the global market, local developers are facing both challenges and new opportunities.
With reduced access to international platforms and shifting player preferences, the industry must assess current trends and develop long-term growth strategies.
— Can Russian games meet player expectations and compete with global hits?
— What does the domestic audience want? Trend analysis for the coming years
— Localizing game production and components: how feasible is it, and what obstacles must be overcome?
— Market potential assessment: domestic demand, export capacity, and regional specifics (BRICS, CIS)

Just as hopes of renewed US-Russia relations began to rise, the Russian IT market experienced new shocks. Domestic vendors who heavily invested in import-substitution demand clear rules and protective measures against the possible return of global IT giants.
Experience suggests that critical infrastructure will continue to be built on trusted domestic solutions, while the rest of the market retains freedom of choice.
But is this “status quo” enough to stimulate the industry and strengthen tech sovereignty? What development scenarios are most likely, and how will they shape business strategy?
— The future of “trusted systems” in current regulation
— Striking the right balance: how not to alienate foreign vendors while protecting domestic players
— Tech sovereignty vs. free competition: which is better for the IT industry?
— Tech export potential: who needs Russian solutions, and why?

Technology cooperation among developing nations is increasingly important for economic growth and innovation.
This session will explore joint opportunities in industrial digitalization and global supply chain development. Special attention will be paid to the participation of Russian organizations and partner countries in international initiatives aimed at accelerating industrial development in emerging economies.
Key topics:
— UNIDO priorities in digital industry: strategic directions and business involvement
— Global cooperation on industrial AI implementation
— Advanced digital technologies: from local solutions to international projects

In the context of global economic shifts, technological innovation, and rising international tensions, cooperation between Russia and China in digital technologies is of growing importance.
For both countries, digitalization is essential for global competitiveness, improved quality of life, sustainable economic growth, and technological independence.
Effective collaboration requires a joint business ecosystem, bilateral digital platforms, startup support, and cross-border investment.
This approach will strengthen economic ties and elevate both countries in the global digital transformation race.
— What are the key challenges for Russia–China cooperation in the current geopolitical climate?
— What steps are needed to build an effective bilateral business ecosystem in the digital sphere?
— Which platforms and tools can enhance collaboration between Russian and Chinese companies?
— How does Russia–China digital cooperation impact global competitiveness?