The State Duma has passed a new law aimed at developing Russia’s creative industries, following second and third readings, according to TASS.
The legislation defines the creative industry as an economic activity tied directly to the creation, distribution, and sale of unique creative products that hold economic value.
The law outlines distinct categories within the sector, highlighting how culture, technology, and design intersect to drive growth and innovation.
One category focuses on activities that leverage historical and cultural heritage, including folk arts, gallery operations, and related cultural enterprises, with an eye toward safeguarding heritage while enabling modern distribution and monetization.
A second category covers the creation and use of literary and artistic works, ranging from live performances to musical compositions and photographic creations, recognizing the value of creative expression across media formats.
A third category encompasses information and telecommunications technologies, including software development, video and computer game production, advertising, publishing, and media services, reflecting the digital transformation shaping today s creative economy.
Additionally, the law accounts for applied creativity, spanning fashion design, accessories, crafts, performing arts, and fields like architecture and gastronomy, thereby broadening the scope of permissible activities and potential support.
The act envisions the creation of a unified register of subjects participating in the creative industries, with the government set to determine the procedures for its establishment and operation, which could streamline access to incentives and data sharing among stakeholders.
On July 24, President Vladimir Putin approved a set of instructions arising from the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum SPIEF. Among the directives, the President urged the State Duma to advance the federal law on developing Russia s creative industries, signaling a high-level commitment to formalizing and accelerating sector growth.
Earlier remarks from Sberbank touched on how artificial intelligence may influence the creative industries, outlining potential impacts on productivity, workflow automation, and new modes of content creation, while also highlighting considerations around innovation, fair competition, and talent development.