Russia Prepares to Patent Digital Solutions for the First Time
Russia is preparing to become the first country in the world to introduce patent protection for digital solutions, a move that could redefine global approaches to intellectual property
Legal Foundations
The Russian Federation is considering landmark legislation that would introduce patent protection for digital solutions — from software systems to advanced IT technologies. The bill, already approved in its first reading by the State Duma and supported by the Government, aims to formalize and commercialize the domestic IT market while simplifying the protection of developers’ rights and stimulating patent activity.
According to expert estimates, the Russian software development sector generated approximately $112–$134 billion in 2023, yet fewer than 1,000 patents were filed. If the new legislation passes, Russia would become the first country in the world to officially recognize patenting mechanisms for “digital solutions.” This would give developers new tools to protect intellectual property, safeguard against unauthorized copying, and generate value through licensing.
These guarantees would also enhance the investment attractiveness of the IT sector, stimulate exports of Russian digital solutions, and reduce the risks of technology leakage. Ordinary users would benefit from higher‑quality, more secure digital services and the overall acceleration of digital transformation across public and private sectors.
The initiative is also expected to create new jobs in the IT industry. Moreover, Russia could set a precedent for the international community by establishing a global standard for patenting digital solutions — a move that could influence how countries handle IP and software rights in the future.
Development and Export
The adoption of the law is expected to dramatically increase patent activity. Developers and startups would acquire a powerful mechanism for protecting their innovations, stimulating new product development, capitalization growth, and competition within the market.
Patent protection may also boost exports of Russian digital technologies. With clearer IP guarantees, foreign clients could adopt Russian solutions more confidently — especially in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where demand for alternative technologies is rising. If successful, Russia’s patenting model could become a reference point for other nations. However, international recognition would require alignment with global IP protection systems.
Growing Demand for Security
Debates about the patentability of software have been unfolding since 2017 across academic and business communities. In the early 2020s, interest intensified, with numerous studies highlighting the need for new legal protections amid rapid digitalization.
A 2024 study titled “Intellectual Property as a Key Resource in the Digital Economy” emphasized the importance of patent frameworks for digital transformation. By 2025, the topic gained traction in government discussions as demand for cybersecurity and antivirus solutions surged, confirming the need for enforceable IP rules.
A New Tool for National Tech Sovereignty
If approved, the law will become a cornerstone of Russia’s digital legal infrastructure. In the coming years, it may trigger a surge in patent applications from IT companies and developers — especially those creating products with export potential.
From the standpoint of technological sovereignty, the reform is crucial: patent protection encourages companies to build domestic solutions rather than relying on foreign technologies. However, the law’s success will depend on the clarity of its procedures, the absence of excessive bureaucracy, and the quality of expert evaluations.
