The Far East Development Strategy: New Horizons for Economic Growth until 2036

The previous strategy, completed in 2025, demonstrated tangible results: gross regional product (GRP) increased by more than a quarter, 5.5–6 trillion rubles in private investment were attracted, and more than 170,000–180,000 jobs were created. However, sustainable development requires a shift from isolated measures to a comprehensive approach that integrates infrastructure projects, industrial development, and social initiatives.

A key challenge addressed by the new strategy is overcoming infrastructure constraints that hinder economic growth. In particular, energy shortages and weak territorial connectivity significantly reduce the region’s investment attractiveness. The planned increase in power capacity to 29.4 GW by 2036 (including the commissioning of 12.8 GW of new capacity) is intended to ensure energy security amid projected economic growth. At the same time, the goal is to raise the gasification rate of the FEFD to over 50% and modernize existing generation facilities.

The transport complex also requires large-scale modernization. Increasing the capacity of the Baikal–Amur Mainline (BAM) and the Trans-Siberian Railway to 270 million tons per year (up from the current 180 million tons), along with expanding port capacity by approximately 136 million tons, will significantly boost freight traffic. The reconstruction of 25 airports and the growth of domestic passenger traffic to 4 million people per year by 2030 are expected to improve transport accessibility and quality of life.

The region’s investment potential is assessed as very high. According to the Ministry for the Development of the Far East, by 2036 investments in mineral extraction (oil, gas, coal, metals, rare earth elements) could reach 15.8 trillion rubles, while projects in deep processing (petrochemicals, metallurgy, timber processing, fish processing) may attract an additional 13.6 trillion rubles. A further 4.8 trillion rubles is planned for the development of high-tech industries: space, pharmaceuticals, radio electronics, robotics, biotechnology, aircraft and shipbuilding.

This approach allows for gradual diversification of the FEFD economy. By the end of the strategy period, the share of high-tech and knowledge-intensive industries in GRP is expected to approach 16%, while domestic expenditures on research and development (R&D) are projected to rise to 1% of GRP. The forecast 46% increase in labor productivity compared to 2024 confirms the focus on innovation-driven growth.

Special attention in the strategy is given to human capital and quality of life. The implementation of master plans for 22 agglomerations and the development of 189 key settlements (with total investment of 3.6 trillion rubles) are intended to halt population outflow and create conditions for retention. Key goals include increasing housing provision to 38 square meters per person; raising life expectancy to 81 years; ensuring net migration growth of 40,000 people annually; creating 140,000 new high-productivity jobs; increasing real incomes by 1.4 times; and doubling tourist flows, including attracting more than 2.5 million foreign tourists per year.

An equally important aspect is climate adaptation. Permafrost monitoring, the transition of extractive enterprises to “green” standards, and the development of renewable energy in isolated areas will reduce environmental risks and enhance infrastructure resilience.

The strategy also reinforces the FEFD’s role as a key hub for cooperation with the countries of the Asia-Pacific region (APR). About 30% of Russian cargo already passes through Far Eastern ports, and this transit potential could become a driver of export expansion and foreign investment inflows.

The presented draft strategy appears well thought out and balanced. Its strength lies in integrating infrastructure, industrial, and social objectives into a unified system. However, success will depend on the effectiveness of mechanisms for attracting private investment; coordination between federal and regional authorities; flexibility in adapting to external challenges (sanctions pressure, global market fluctuations); and the real implementation of measures aimed at population retention (not only job creation, but also the development of social infrastructure, education, and healthcare).

At present, the document is undergoing public discussion in all FEFD regions. Proposals from residents are being accepted until the end of May, and the revised version is scheduled to be submitted to the government by July 15, 2026. If the key provisions of the strategy are implemented, the Far East could become one of Russia’s most dynamically developing macroregions, capable of making a significant contribution to the national economy and strengthening the country’s position in the APR.

Author: Candidate of Economic Sciences, Associate Professor, Department of World Economy and World Finance, Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation Natalya Ivanovna Chovgan.