Russia Builds a Legal Framework for Autonomous Delivery Robots
Russia is moving to formalize the rules for autonomous delivery, creating a legal regime that defines how sidewalk robots operate, who is responsible for them, and how citizens are protected if something goes wrong.
Russia is developing a first-of-its-kind legal framework aimed at the mass deployment of delivery robots. Once the initiative is approved, an experimental rollout will begin in the city of Samara, where autonomous rovers will transport goods without human operators, backed by mandatory insurance coverage.
A draft law developed in the Samara region introduces a level of regulatory detail that is unprecedented for Russia, according to the outlet Samara24. It defines not only technical parameters – including a maximum speed of up to 25 km/h (about 15.5 mph) on roads and absolute priority for pedestrians – but also a system of full financial liability for operators.
Each robot will be equipped with a unique identification number and a QR code for verification, while mandatory insurance coverage of 500,000 rubles (approximately $6,000) will cover any potential damage. In the event of a malfunction, the owner will be required to remove the device from public streets within four hours.
Synchronization With a Federal Strategy
What makes the Samara initiative distinctive is its alignment with a broader federal strategy. The project is designed as a testbed for a nationwide program led by the Ministry of Economic Development, which envisions expanding the fleet of delivery robots across Russia from 150 to 2,600 units. If the experiment proves successful, the model could be replicated in other regions.
For Russia, the project represents a chance to assert technological sovereignty in a rapidly growing sector. For other countries, the Russian approach could serve as an example of how emerging technologies can be tested alongside the creation of clear rules that define responsibility and protect citizens’ rights.
