Structural features of Russian economy integration into global value chains and lessons for structural policy

Features of the country's integration into global production today best reflect its competitive advantages and growth prospects. This paper provides an analysis of long-term trends in the features of integration of the Russian economy into global value chains (GVCs). Three cases of industrial upgrading in forestry, food and chemical industries are analyzed. In the case of a significant lag in the industry from the global technological frontier, attracting foreign investment and importing technology is the easiest way to integrate the economy into GVCs. For end-user-oriented sub-sectors, this means quick adaptation of organizational and marketing innovations, satisfaction of changing consumer preferences, and the formation of new markets and market niches. Moreover, based on the best practices of Russian and foreign companies, the technological level of lagging domestic companies may advance. For sub-sectors focused on intermediate goods, the introduction of technologies can determine an increase in the depth of redistribution in the sector and the subsequent increase in the production capacities of domestic companies based on the best practices of foreign companies.