The Internet Development Institute (IRI), in conjunction with the Association of Professionals in the Industry of Operating and Developing Games (APRIORI), conducted a study that found that only one in seven companies in Russia developing video games was able to take advantage of government support measures. This is about 13% of market participants. The survey involved 200 companies, of which 61% were involved in game development and 21% in their publishing.
Of the 88% of companies that applied for assistance, only 12.7% were able to receive it. The main forms of support were grants and tax incentives, while other measures, such as rebates and acceleration, were rarely used.
Industry representatives note that existing support measures are useful, but face administrative barriers. The main problems include strict requirements for recipients, difficulties with documentation, and lack of funding.
Despite the difficulties, the gaming industry in Russia continues to develop. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko previously stated that the video game market has already overtaken cinema and music. President Vladimir Putin also emphasized the importance of developing the domestic gaming industry, calling for the creation of patriotic and educational games.
To improve the situation in the industry, experts suggest expanding support measures, including assistance in promoting to foreign markets and tax incentives. The Ministry of Digital Development noted that they are ready to consider the results of the study and adapt support measures as part of the strategy for the development of the creative economy until 2036.
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