Chinese investors could offer Omsk region more than just taxes and employment opportunities; they could also bring new technologies. (Mikhail Derevyanko)
Chatterbox: Let's talk about a recent trip to China by the Deputy General Director for Development of OЭZ "Avangard," Mikhail Deryanchenko. During this visit, he held discussions with several Chinese companies regarding potential ventures in the Omsk region.
In April, Mikhail visited three major cities—Hohhot, Shenyang, and Tianjin—mostly encountering businesses he'd worked with before. In Hohhot, he’s been cooperating with the Committee for Supporting Foreign Trade since 2023, already supplying agricultural products to Inner Mongolia province. In Shenyang, he met with new entrepreneurs thanks to the efforts of the Russian consulate and provincial authorities. Tianjin welcomed him on the invitation of the Committee for the Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products, a cooperative relationship that has delivered joint projects since 2020.
During the negotiations, many oil and chemical industry companies showed interest due to the industry-rich Omsk region. While these Chinese companies aim to integrate into the production chains of existing Omsk enterprises, the region also presents potential for new sectors such as logistics, transportation, technology, and agriculture.
Chinese investors are typically thorough in their decision-making process, focusing on market analysis, sales, production capacities, and legislative framework. It might take several months to a few years for a Chinese firm to decide on launching a project in Russia but once they commit, they move swiftly—usually completing construction within a year. This investment could come with new technologies, boosting regional development and potentially opening opportunities for internships and industrial tourism.
The Omsk region, known for its industrial legacy, offers a solid foundational base for various industries, making it an attractive destination for potential foreign investments. Though the regulatory environment and market access should be thoroughly researched before making any big moves, the region's strategic location, strong industrial base, and promising sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and technology could make it a lucrative choice for Chinese investors. [It's worth mentioning here that Siberia's agricultural resources present additional opportunities for food processing investments from Chinese companies.]
Caution must be exercised when exploring these prospects, taking into account the current political and economic climate and keeping up with any regulatory updates to ensure a smooth and successful venture in the Omsk region's special economic zone "Avangard".
I'm not sure if the technology sector in the Omsk region will be the primary focus for Chinese investors, but it is one of the potential sectors they are considering. The technology integration by Chinese companies could boost regional development and provide opportunities for internships and industrial tourism.
