On December 8, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin outlined six key priorities for 2026 at the Council for Strategic Development and National Projects meeting. He urged government and regional authorities to step up efforts across demographics, economy and technology to secure Russia's long-term goals.
1. Reversing Demographic Decline
Putin highlighted the need to reverse negative population trends. With birth rates still falling, he called for comprehensive policies to encourage higher fertility, boost family support and roll out successful regional initiatives nationwide.
2. Steady Economic Growth
The second priority focuses on strengthening household well-being through steady economic growth. Although Russia's GDP is expected to grow around 1% this year, Putin sees room to accelerate expansion while keeping unemployment low and inflation in check.
3. Modernizing Foreign Trade
Putin wants a shift toward exporting more technologically advanced goods and importing high-tech products that Russia currently lacks, aiming to diversify the country’s trade portfolio.
4. Cutting the Shadow Economy
The government plans to curb illegal wholesale and retail turnover, reduce unregistered employment and tighten oversight of cash circulation to boost transparency.
5. Boosting Labor Productivity
He urged the rapid launch of sector-specific competence centers within the agriculture, digital development and energy ministries to drive efficiency gains.
6. Achieving Tech Leadership
Beyond import substitution, Russia aims to develop globally competitive technologies in areas like artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, digital platforms and advanced automation.
By tackling demographic challenges, economic stability and technological innovation together, Russia aims to build a more resilient and competitive economy in 2026 and beyond.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
