Russia on the Global Technological Market: The Factors Preventing Better Position

This study examines the barriers for Russia to take the leading position on the global technological market. The goal of a country leadership is declared by the Russian authorities through a number of policy documents. Conducted statistical analysis shows the low patent activity of Russian applicants abroad and, as a result, weak positions of the country on the global IP market. At the same time, the government makes attempts to encourage international patenting and spread Russian technologies abroad by providing companies with financial and informational support. Therefore, this study is run by the research question: What are the reasons for the low patent activity abroad? To answer this question interviews with representatives of Russian innovation companies were organized. The results of the study demonstrate that the lack of enthusiasm and opportunity to do business abroad seems to be the key factor preventing companies to patent their technologies internationally. Other important factors include the focus on import substitution strategy rather than developing disruptive technologies; financial constraints connected with patent filing and possible judicial proceedings; misunderstanding of how to protect intellectual property abroad sufficiently; and losing trust in patents as a tool ensuring IP rights protection.