Officials in Khakassia and RUSAL announced a strategic accord to establish a dedicated special economic zone in the region, a plan highlighted by the region’s leadership during coverage at the Eastern Economic Forum and shared via official channels. The agreement centers on creating a zone near the Sayanogorsk – Khakass technological valley, signaling a coordinated push to expand local industry and attract investment. This initiative is framed as a centerpiece for regional economic diversification and industrial modernization. [attribution: regional government statement]
According to the announcement, the Khakass government and RUSAL intend to scale up the SAYANAL enterprise’s capabilities and inaugurate a new facility dedicated to the production of aluminum tape and foil. The project is projected to mobilize approximately 30 billion rubles in investment and is expected to generate around 800 new jobs, boosting the local economy and creating supply chain opportunities for suppliers and manufacturers in adjacent sectors. [attribution: official brief]
Meanwhile, national party leadership has floated broader ideas about special economic zones in the broader conflict-affected areas. In late May, remarks from a senior party official suggested the possibility of establishing a SEZ within the Donetsk and Luhansk people’s republics, with policy considerations to ensure a portion of capital costs associated with building production facilities could be recovered through returns or incentives. The discussion underscores a continued focus on leveraging SEZs to stimulate development in challenging regional contexts. [attribution: party guidance]
Separately, the national government approved the establishment of a separate SEZ known as the “Third Pole,” aimed at industrial production within Kursk region. This decision reflects a broader strategy of using specialized economic zones to accelerate manufacturing capacity, attract investment, and facilitate technology transfer across key sectors. The move aligns with ongoing efforts to optimize regional resources and resilience in Russia’s manufacturing landscape. [attribution: government resolution]