Government officials emphasize prevention over punishment for business violations
On March 23, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin outlined a shift in approach for Russian businesses. He stated that penalties should not be the default response to violations, and that preventing infractions is the preferred path. The Prime Minister spoke during a briefing and did not answer questions from State Duma deputies at that moment.
“The focus is on preventing violations rather than handing out fines. This is where our efforts start”, Mishustin said. He added that a central government objective is to reduce the administrative burden on business so enterprises can operate with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.
He also noted that while complete elimination of inspections is not feasible for entrepreneurs, the goal should be to minimize them. The practical balance, according to the Prime Minister, is to create a business environment with fewer interruptions while maintaining necessary oversight.
Earlier remarks highlighted growth in Russia’s IT sector. In 2022, sales of IT products and services rose by 22 percent, underscoring the sector’s resilience. Mishustin pointed to 2023 and beyond, mentioning the planned rollout of pilot projects that would bring Russian computer-aided design systems to the largest enterprises. He described these efforts as essential for data and process management, signaling a push toward greater digital infrastructure across major industries. [Citation: Official statements from the Kremlin press service]
Looking at the broader economy, Mishustin announced a raise in the minimum wage, effective January 1, 2024. The increase was set at 18.5 percent, a move described as part of a broader effort to support workers amid evolving economic conditions. He also reaffirmed that the Russian economy had remained on a recovery path in 2022 and claimed that 2024 would show GDP growth rates higher than those of many developed nations. [Citation: Government communications summaries]
The Prime Minister’s remarks reflect a recurring policy theme: balancing regulatory oversight with a friendlier climate for business, backed by modernization initiatives in technology and data management. As the administration emphasizes preventive measures, observers will watch how these approaches influence enterprise activity, compliance costs, and long-term growth trajectories in the Russian economy. [Citation: Official government briefings]