"Russian gaming companies outside IT parks may find VAT and tax burdens consuming all their revenue"
In comments for the publication “Kommersant,” independent producer and game designer Vyacheslav Makarov, who previously held the position of product director at World of Tanks, shared his thoughts on what awaits Russian gaming companies following the cancellation of benefits.
Vyacheslav Makarov
“Right now we are facing the cancellation of benefits. This means that the costs for Russian developers will increase by about 15%, and along with the profit tax for companies outside the IT parks, the VAT and tax burden could consume all revenue. Obviously, a company without income simply will not survive,” he told our colleagues.
He also noted, according to “Kommersant,” that “government support, tax benefits, and creating conditions that encourage the return of specialists and enhance competitiveness in the global market are extremely important for the preservation and development of the domestic game industry.”
Recall that in September 2025, a bill was developed introducing several amendments to the Tax Code. According to it:
- the size of insurance contributions for domestic IT companies will increase from 15% to the base rate of 30%;
- the benefit of VAT non-payment for developers of Russian software will be canceled;
- the VAT itself will increase from 18% to 22%.