Foreign economic activity at a crossroads: business asks for sustainability, digitalization and new rules of the game
Foreign economic activity is undergoing a large-scale transformation. The sphere, which has long been associated with commodity exchange, is steadily moving towards the implementation of international investment initiatives. At the VI International Foreign Economic Forum, experts emphasized that sustainable development in this area is impossible without creating a favorable environment for investors, from small businesses to multinational corporations.
According to Lyudmila Teselkina, founder of Just Group, companies are increasingly facing barriers that limit growth. A study conducted among the forum participants showed that 70% of businesses suffer from currency restrictions, 60% from sanctions pressure and lack of transparency of customs procedures. Almost half of the respondents point to a lack of reliable partners abroad and logistical difficulties. And 40% of companies face a shortage of professionals in the field of foreign economic activity.
Nevertheless, experts are confident that sustainability is possible. Simplified declaration, the development of free economic zones, the active use of the institution of an authorized economic operator and other mechanisms — all this already provides businesses with tools to reduce costs and optimize processes.
A special emphasis is placed on the development of the Northern Sea Route. The forecast until 2030 assumes a 3-fold increase in cargo traffic. This area is already being actively explored by partners from China and India as a reliable alternative to the Suez Canal. The development of North—South logistics corridors, modernization of ports and an even distribution of cargo flows between hubs are also on the agenda.
Financially, the emphasis is on de-dollarization. The share of the euro and the dollar in the calculations fell to 19%, while the yuan and the rupee occupied almost 40%. Mirror schemes and branches of Russian banks abroad ensure the reliability of transactions, reducing the risks of sanctions.
One of the main problems, according to the forum participants, is a shortage of staff, poor funding, barriers to international certification and slow document flow. Businesses need not only benefits, but also technological solutions: digital platforms, simplified labeling, and effective marketing.
The final conclusion of the forum is clear: the world is changing, and it is adaptation to new conditions that will fuel the growth of Russia's export potential.
