The Ministry of Digital Development is set to tighten the rules for software to enter Russia’s domestic software registry. A new condition being considered would require software to run on at least two Russian operating systems and to support at least one domestic processor listed in the registry managed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. This potential change was reported by Kommersant, a major industry publication.
The ministry has already prepared an amendment and plans to fold it into the decision that governs which programs qualify for the domestic software registry. The proposal has been circulating among specialized companies for reconsideration since it was first discussed in July 2023.
According to Kommersant, the Ministry of Digital Development expected to approve the new standards as early as 2023, with the rollout scheduled to occur gradually over 2024.
Officials from the Ministry of Industry and Trade stated that the new requirements align with Russia’s broader strategy for developing microelectronics. The move is framed as part of an effort to boost local technological sovereignty and reduce dependence on foreign platforms.
Opinion among software developers is mixed. For instance, Only CEO Kirill Vladimirov argues that creating software compatible with Russian processors and operating systems imposes significant costs. Some developers may choose not to seek inclusion in the local registry or may withdraw their products entirely. Conversely, Nikolai Komlev, who chairs the council of the Russian Federation Chamber of Commerce and Industry for digital economy development, contends that while the new burden is real, it could grant access to public tenders and offer tax incentives in return.
The report also notes ongoing activity in the consumer electronics sector, including the continued growth in sales of Samsung Galaxy devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 5, highlighting the dynamic nature of tech markets amid regulatory changes.