Russia has established itself among the major players in global science. The country ranked 8th in the world by the volume of expenditures on research and development. This is stated in calculations by the Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge at HSE University.
In 2024, domestic expenditures on civil research and development amounted to almost $67 billion (converted at purchasing power parity). This sum includes small business expenses. Experts analyzed data from the OECD, Rosstat, Eurostat, and national statistical services of various countries.
China and the USA remain global leaders: each country spends more than $1 trillion on science. Meanwhile, Russia surpasses a number of rapidly developing countries — for example, India (9th place) and Turkey (10th place).
According to recent years' results, the country is likely to maintain its position among global leaders, experts expect. In 2024, science expenditures increased by 7.5% compared to 2023 — this is higher than in France and Germany (around 3%), as well as Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.
Russia ranks 6th in the world by the number of researchers, when measured in full-time equivalents (FTEs). In this recalculation, the country has more than 382,800 FTEs.
China and the USA also remain leaders in this indicator — over 3.1 million and 1.7 million FTEs, respectively.
Experts note that in Russia, the state remains the main customer and source of funding for science. Businesses are gradually increasing investments, but so far, they are doing so only in specific areas.
