The digitalization of the industrial sector of Russia's economy as a land development priority
Subject. As the socio-economic development of the Russian regions faces new threats, Russia needs to have a set of measures implemented to ensure the further emergence of the digital economy, including the digitization of the industrial sector for purposes of the national competitiveness. Objectives. I evaluate the development level of the informatization and digitalization in the Russian regions. The article provides a set of actions to engender and raise the digital economy of Russia, including the digitalization of the industrial sector in line with new challenges, such as the current pandemiс. Methods. Research employs the dialectical method, systems approach, chart and graphic interpretation of empirical and factual data, etc. Results. I provide my own explanation what the digitalization of the economy should mean, and demonstrate the difference and trade-off between informatization, automation, computerization and digitalization. I evaluate the development level of digitalization in Russia by type of business activities and region. The article points out what mainly matters during the emergence of the digital economy in the Russian regions. I suggest implementing a set of activities to promote the digital economy in Russia in line with new challenges and the pandemic, in particular. Conclusions and Relevance. The industrial sector of Russia is not yet prepared to start the digital transformation, except business entities in some large cities and Moscow. There is a digital inequality in Russia, from perspectives of regions, cities and villages. The proposed actions will make the country more competitive.