In Russia, artificial intelligence will not leave people without jobs
A new study shows that for most Russian companies, artificial intelligence is becoming a tool for automating routine tasks rather than a means of cutting jobs
AI as a Catalyst for Workforce Evolution
In Russian companies, artificial intelligence is increasingly viewed not as a mechanism for reducing staff, but as a way to boost business efficiency and reshape the nature of employees’ work. This conclusion comes from a study published by RBC on December 8, 2025.
The survey covered chief technology officers from major enterprises across 16 industries, as well as AI solution providers and end‑users. The findings reveal that only about one‑third of companies associate AI deployment with reducing payroll expenses. For the majority, the priority is automating routine operations and freeing specialists for more complex, higher‑value tasks.
Sector‑by‑Sector Impact
The impact of AI varies significantly by industry. Respondents see the greatest potential for cost optimization in transportation and logistics, consumer‑goods manufacturing, and petrochemicals. Meanwhile, sectors such as healthcare, construction, e‑commerce, and real estate characterize AI’s value as more moderate, focusing not on direct cost reductions but on improving service quality and operational control.
According to analysts, by 2030 AI may contribute between $77.5b and $125.5b per year to the Russian economy — equivalent to several percentage points of projected GDP. This impact will stem not only from automation, but from the emergence of new products, more precise personalization, stronger customer service, and the rise of innovative business models.
Already, 71 percent of companies use at least one AI solution. AI is most commonly applied in marketing, sales, customer support, management, and corporate communications.
A Shift in Mindset
Experts note a major shift: AI is increasingly viewed not as a replacement for people, but as a tool for improving productivity and work quality. For businesses, this means not eliminating human labor but redistributing responsibilities and gradually transitioning toward more meaningful and technologically advanced forms of work.
