International technology transfer as an effective tool of export-oriented import substitution in Russia

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the prospects of the international transfer technologies in the Russian market. The sanctions imposed on Russia by the EU countries and the United States have led to a clear understanding of the danger of dependence on imports. In 2014, an import substitution program was launched by the Russian government, and it has already shown the positive results. Some industries showed the increasing the share of domestic products by 15-25% Nevertheless, simple import substitution can also have a negative impact on the enterprise. For example, it can decrease the productivity and the product quality. Not all enterprises can offer competitive products without imported components, technologies, and trained personnel, even for the domestic market. No doubt, the interests of domestic producers must be considered in the first place, but it is necessary to make sure that Russian products are also interesting for the foreign markets. That is why the government set the task of moving from the policy of simple import substitution to the policy of export-oriented import substitution. Russia should improve its performance in the export of non-resource goods. Unfortunately, simple localization can be quite risky for the economy. Russia should be more actively involved in international technology transfer. The article examines the weaknesses and strengths of the Russian innovation system, as well as the opportunities that open for Russian business and Swiss companies, that transforms innovative and patented technologies developed by Swiss universities and international research centers into global successful businesses.