Possible taxation on automated job roles could be imposed by Russia
In the ever-evolving world of technology, discussions about a potential robot labor tax have been circulating globally. However, as of August 2025, no confirmed policy or legislative proposal for a robot labor tax in Russia has been reported.
Russia has been actively pursuing automation in various sectors, with functions of operators and cashiers being transferred to machines. This technological transformation, however, has faced a significant slowdown since 2022 due to international sanctions, affecting access to foreign parts and technology essential for automation systems [3].
The idea of taxing robots, as suggested by the CEO of Unitree Robotics in China, is an intriguing concept [2]. Yet, it is not indicative of an active Russian policy. Russia has introduced other tax and regulatory adjustments recently, such as crypto tax frameworks and expanded VAT obligations for businesses, but there is no official robot labor tax in Russia as of mid-2025 [1][5].
The World Bank notes that industrial robots are reshaping labor markets in the broader region, but no explicit robot-specific taxation schemes in Russia or its neighbours have been identified [4].
Despite the lack of a robot labor tax, the machine-building industry in Russia remains significant, employing around 1.1 million people on more than 22,000 enterprises, accounting for approximately 10% of the country's total industrial employment [6].
Vacancies for CNC machine operators range from 50,000 to 89,000 rubles, with salaries in Moscow and St. Petersburg ranging from 83,000 to 85,000 rubles [7]. The qualification of a specialist is critical in conditions of production defects, technical malfunctions, or non-standard equipment settings [8].
While complete replacement of humans with robots is not yet possible, many processes require flexible adaptation and quick decision-making in non-standard situations [9]. The goal in Russia is to build a system during technological transformation that benefits both business and people, ensuring training of personnel, adaptation of professions, and economic stability during the transition period [10].
In conclusion, while the global discourse is abuzz with the potential for a robot labor tax, no confirmed policy or legislative proposal for a robot labor tax in Russia has been reported as of August 2025. The country's current challenges with automation growth are more related to sanctions and supply chain constraints than tax policy on robots [3].
The technological advancements in Russia, including automation in various sectors, have been influenced by international sanctions, impacting access to necessary technology for automation systems. The World Bank highlights that while industrial robots are reshaping labor markets, no explicit robot-specific taxation schemes have been identified in Russia or its neighbors.
