Reducing the differentiation of regions’ economic space based on digital transformation: Theoretical, methodological and practical aspects

The subject of the research is the processes of digital transformation of the economic space of the Russian regions. The aim of the work is to identify and analyze the key problems of implementing digital transformation at the regional level in Russia and assess its potential as a tool to reduce the differentiation of the economic space. The research is based on a comprehensive methodology that includes a comparative analysis of the international and Russian digitalization experience. The methods of analysis of regulatory legal acts regulating the digital economy in the Russian Federation, processing and interpretation of relevant statistical data were applied. The analysis of scientific publications on the topic is carried out. Spatial economics approaches were used to assess spatial aspects, which made it possible to analyze the level of digital connectivity of regions and the depth of regional differences in digital development. Theoretical approaches to understanding the digitalization of the economy are systematized. The relevant international experience of digital transformation has been assessed and compared with Russian practice, and adaptation opportunities have been identified. The features and gaps of the current legal regulation of the digital economy in Russia are presented. The best practices applicable for strengthening regional policy in the field of digitalization have been identified. The specific problems of digital transformation at the federal and subfederal levels, as well as the role of digital platforms and the need for their effective institutional design are investigated. It has been established that the successful digital transformation of the Russian economy requires comprehensive and coordinated actions at all levels of government, from federal to municipal, to reduce inter-regional differentiation. The key obstacles, in addition to the imperfection of legal regulation, are the acute shortage of qualified IT personnel in the regions, insufficient digital infrastructure and limited financial resources of regional budgets. In this regard, it is necessary to develop and implement unified, consistent legislation in the field of the digital economy, strengthen the motivation and competencies of regional and local authorities, provide targeted support to small and medium-sized businesses in the context of digitalization, and implement programs to improve the digital literacy of the population and the level of digital maturity of the territories as a whole.