Nizhny Novgorod SEZ "Kulibin" entered top-3 of Russia's Sustainable Development Rating

Results of the III sustainable development (ESG) rating of special economic zones in Russia were presented at the III International Forum of Special Economic Zones 2025 held in Nizhny Novgorod on September 18. The rating was prepared by the Association of Clusters, Technoparks, and SEZs of Russia supported by the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia.

The top position in the ESG rating of Russian SEZs went to "Moscow Technopolis" SEZ, followed by "Dubna" and "Saint Petersburg" SEZs sharing the second spot, while the third place was taken by Nizhny Novgorod "Kulibin" SEZ.

Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia, Svyatoslav Sorokin, commented:

"The ESG agenda has become a key element in assessing the effectiveness of SEZ managing companies. Principles of sustainable development help strengthen their positions in the economy and build long-term competitiveness. This rating identifies best practices and enables scaling them up."

He explained that the methodology of the ranking is based on non-financial reporting standards and takes into account three blocks of indicators: environmental policy, social responsibility, and corporate governance.

Mikhail Labudin, Director of the Association of Clusters, Technoparks, and SEZs of Russia, emphasized that the sustainability rating has once again demonstrated its relevance and demand over the past three years.

"We see that the number of participants is growing, the depth of data provided increases, and the zones themselves demonstrate a more mature approach towards ESG transformation. This shows that our methodology works and encourages participants to enhance transparency and integrate environmental and social practices," he noted.

Andrei Sanosyan, Deputy Governor of Nizhny Novgorod Region, drew attention to the fact that the region pays particular attention to ensuring sustainable development.

"Nizhny Novgorod systematically implements the concept of sustainable development. Recently, a law on responsible business conduct was adopted, and in 2024, Analytical Credit Rating Agency assigned the region an ESG AA rating for the first time. In addition, in the Kulibin SEZ, we implement the standard of business public capital, and residency policies incorporate principles of sustainable development," Andrey Sanosyan stressed.

The Development Corporation of the Nizhny Novgorod Region acts as the managing company of "Kulibin" SEZ.

Igor Ishchenko, Director General of the Development Corporation of the Nizhny Novgorod Region pointed out that the corporation significantly focuses on achieving sustainable development goals. "Thus, the "Kulibin" SEZ became the first among Russia's preferential territories to implement a strategy for low-carbon development. Furthermore, plans are underway to construct residential complexes near the site to create comfortable working and living conditions for employees of enterprises located there. Third place is a good achievement, yet it also proves that much work lies ahead," he remarked.

In recognition of high levels of ecological policy, "Titan Valley" SEZ received special mention, while "Togliatti" SEZ stood out for its strong social policies, and "Avangard" SEZ earned praise for systematic efforts toward sustainable development.