Developing the digital economy: Experience of Russia and Germany
Subject The article considers the digital economy development in the Russian Federation. It outlines issues affecting certain areas of digital economy development in the country, compares relevant indicators of the leading world economies, Germany in particular, and of Russia.  Objectives The main goal is to generate proposals for harmonization of Russian laws on digital technologies and adaptation of Germany's positive experience in attracting private investors to projects for Internet expansion in remote regions.  Methods The research methodology draws on analysis and synthesis of domestic and foreign experience in the digital economy development to identify key problems and determine the directions of their solution, which will enhance the competitive advantages of our country in the field of digitalization.  Results The paper reviews indicators of digital economy development according to the Global Information Technology Report, Digital Economy and Society Index, etc., compares them, analyzes strategic documents of the Russian Federation defining the key aspects of the digital economy development, unveils inconsistencies in regulatory documents that need updating. The findings can be used by legislative and executive authorities to coordinate strategic planning documents and amend State-run programs of the Russian Federation, as well as by researchers in this field to analyze the development of digital economy in Russia and abroad.  Conclusions The findings enable to determine further areas for improving the digitalization policy of the government.