The Moscow region is set to gain support from Sber in its push toward import substitution and a transition to a sustainable development model, a commitment formalized during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum through a signed agreement.
The document was executed by Andrey Vorobyov, the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Moscow Region, together with German Gref, the Chairman of the Board of Directors at Sberbank. The partners will pursue a technology partnership aimed at expanding import-substitution production, including financing for digital products listed in the domestic software registry.
In addition to manufacturing and digital goods, Sber is expected to contribute to job creation in the region and to the development of strategies for employing advanced and modern technologies in the production of critical goods, equipment, and digital products that are recorded in the domestic software register.
According to Gref, achieving technological sovereignty is a central objective shaping the direction of Russia’s state policy. He noted that the Moscow region agreement will enable the launch of projects that support the regional and national economies, while boosting investment appeal and competitiveness for the broader area.
He added that the collaboration will elevate living standards and quality of life, with new employment opportunities and reliable access to cutting-edge products and services for both people and businesses.
Vorobyov described the arrangement with the bank as another milestone on the digital transformation path for the Moscow region and for the nation as a whole, underscoring the ongoing drive toward modernization.
He stated that nearly 300 import-substitution projects are already underway and emphasized the importance of expanding this industrial footprint. The aim is to attract additional investors to the region under the new agreement, fueling a broader development trajectory.
The ESG collaboration will focus on addressing socio-economic challenges while safeguarding the region’s environmental and natural-resource base. Gref highlighted the region’s leadership in pushing for sustainable development, noting a clear requirement to balance present needs with those of future generations.
He explained that Sberbank shares a similar philosophy and stands ready to contribute its experience. The bank offers both credit and non-credit ESG products, along with deep expertise and a track record of successful initiatives, to support sustainable growth in the region.
The overarching objective of the partnership is to strengthen the regional economy, expand domestic production, and ensure technology-intensive solutions remain accessible — all while advancing a forward-looking, environmentally responsible growth path for the Moscow Region and the country alike.