The impact of sanctions on the development of the oil and gas sector and ensuring Russia’s technological sovereignty

The significant increase in sanctions pressure after 2022 is clearly evident in the oil and gas sector, which is particularly sensitive to sanctions due to a long period of import dependence. In this regard, the goal of this paper is to analyze the influence of current sanctions on functioning of the Russian oil and gas sector and international experience of adaptation to sanctions (Iran as example), and to lay out recommendations for adjusting Russian policy to ensure technological sovereignty. The article uses a multi-method methodology: analysis and synthesis (dividing the problem of achieving technological sovereignty into individual stages of value chain creation), a historical method (evaluation of anti-Russian sanctions and import substitution policies from the beginning of the 21st century to the present), and a comparative analysis, including the experience of Iran. The main scientific results are the following. The equipment for the oil and gas sector demonstrates the low level of technological sovereignty in Russia. Historical analysis shows that it in focus of domestic policy. Despite the fact that the development of domestic equipment production was spurred by the 2014–2022 sanctions, Russian policy currently does not allow for a high level of import substitution. The similarity of domestic policy with Iran’s import substitution strategy is demonstrated, and the mixed results of this policy indicate the need for adjustments in Russia. Two key areas for improving policy in this area have been identified: the development of exports of oil and gas equipment and intersectoral cooperation among the Russian companies.

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