Business Programme

Tourism provides a serious boost to country’s economic growth. The development of tourism spurs on related industries – from construction and transport to agriculture and industry. This session will bring together the main ideologists and enthusiasts of the tourism industry, who have proven in practice that investing in tourism generates significant returns. Tourism today is the story of people, not abstract branding. Local residents create what a territory lacks.

Russia’s ‘Tourism and Hospitality’ national project is ramping up the development of the industry through the implementation of such major investment projects as: the creation of resort clusters as part of the ‘Five Seas and Lake Baikal’ initiative and other large-scale projects, the modernization of transport infrastructure, and the construction of mixed-use facilities – from premium hotels to digital booking services. These projects create a foundation for affordable and safe tourism, generate demand for domestic products, and provide business support through state programmes. The government and the private sector are synergizing their efforts with the development of common quality standards, staff training, and the introduction of innovative technologies, which enhances the attractiveness of the regions. The multiplier effect of investment can be seen in the growth of related industries, such as logistics, catering, and the event industry. The long-term goal is to consolidate Russia’s position as a country with unique tourism opportunities, where large-scale infrastructure solutions provide a basis for economic growth and the social development of the regions. What are the most effective mechanisms for subsidizing the construction of supporting infrastructure? How is the ‘Five Seas and Lake Baikal’ federal project being implemented? How do major investment projects affect small and medium-sized businesses?

Russia is actively establishing common service quality standards in the hospitality industry to enhance the industry’s competitiveness, meet guests’ expectations, and strengthen their loyalty. The introduction of such standards includes the optimization of business processes, staff training, the use of innovative solutions to differentiate companies, and tools for the real-time monitoring of service. Adapting the market to the new demands for classifying tourism industry facilities requires an analysis of changes in customer expectations, with an emphasis on personalization, speed of service, and digitalization. The country’s regions have had success introducing standards, while customer retention is achieved through premium service, forecasting demand, and an individual approach, which creates sustainable advantages for the regions. How can the successful regional experience be adapted to improve the quality of services in other territories? What helps to quickly respond to industry demand? What are some successful regional and business practices for creating service quality standards and building customer loyalty?

The ‘Production of Domestic Products for the Tourism Industry’ federal project is a strategic response to the challenges of the global market’s transformation and aims to create a sustainable ecosystem of Russian tourism. By 2030, the share of localized equipment and machinery in the industry should reach 84.5% and include such key areas as ski infrastructure, amusement parks, transport logistics, and digital service management platforms. Which categories of equipment (cable cars, snow groomers, attractions) experienced the greatest shortage of domestic analogues in 2024? How should we assess the future need for specialized equipment given the growth in the domestic tourist flow? Which Russian enterprises are ready to scale up the production of ski equipment to phase out imports by 2026? What niches in shipbuilding (cruise liners, river vessels) could be taken over by domestic shipyards? How should state support measures (subsidies, preferential loans) be adapted to the specifics of tourist equipment manufacturers?

Increasing tourism in the Far East is one of the general goals for the development of the region as a whole.
The tourism industry contributes to regional economic growth, while creating jobs and attracting investments. Federal and regional measures are being taken to support and develop tourism infrastructure in an effort to ensure sustainable growth in the future. The ‘Far East – Land of Adventure’ competition is gaining popularity. More and more foreign tourists are getting to know Russia. How can we maintain a balance between nature and business? How can we introduce people to the tourism brand of the Far East? What new support measures are needed for the sustainable development of the tourism industry?

Travelling is one of the most effective ways to learn about your country, its history, and its culture. This is precisely why it is difficult to overestimate the influence that travel has on the upbringing and education of the younger generation. What trends have taken shape in youth tourism? What programmes does the country have in place to make youth tourism more accessible? How can we create tourism routes that are not only interesting but also beneficial for young people?

The hospitality industry is a powerful economic driver that has enormous potential for regional development and improving people’s quality of life. However, in order to realize this potential, significant investments are needed, as well as effective and carefully thought-out state support measures. What are the most effective investment models in the industry? What is the best way to attract capital from individuals to invest in the hospitality industry? What state support measures are most in demand among investors and entrepreneurs? How should we evaluate the effectiveness of these measures and make the necessary adjustments? Which investment models contribute to the sustainable development of the industry?

Russia’s geographical location offers unique prospects for boosting inbound tourism through cross-border routes and the development of land and water transport links. Integrating routes could, in turn, promote cultural exchanges and improve economic well-being. What is the outlook for cruise tourism in the Caspian Sea? What is needed to create comfortable and popular cross-border routes? How should interregional routes be promoted on foreign markets? How can harmonize the legislative framework and quality standards for tourism services?

Russia’s Silver Necklace project is entering a new stage due to changing market conditions and growing demands among tourists. How can we preserve the uniqueness and attractiveness of the route, while adapting it to modern trends and challenges? What has changed in terms of the concept of promoting the Silver Necklace project? What are some promising areas for the development of tourism infrastructure in Russia’s Northwest regions? What opportunities does involvement in the project offer for the development of the region?