Svetlana Panfilova, Deputy Governor of the Murmansk Region and Minister of Arctic Development and Economy, participated in the case session "A New Phase of the Russia-China Investment Partnership: Trends and Strategies for Russian Regions," which took place at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.
In her speech, the Vice Governor presented the potential of the Kola Arctic as a strategic hub for bilateral cooperation, emphasizing the region's unique advantages.
Representatives of federal government bodies, heads of Russian regions, and representatives of the business community and government bodies of the People's Republic of China took part in the discussion.
Svetlana Panfilova noted that by the end of 2025, China will become the Murmansk Region's main foreign trade partner.
"It accounts for 41% of the region's foreign trade, ranking first in both exports and imports. In 2025, we increased our shipments to China by 5% compared to the previous year. Our exports are primarily strategically important commodities: nickel and nickel products, fish products, and metal ores," the Deputy Governor stated.
The presentation focused on the transit potential of the Trans-Arctic Transport Corridor. Svetlana Panfilova reported that an agreement had been reached with the Chinese shipping company NewNew Shipping Line to establish a service between China and Murmansk. The advantages of this route are obvious: the distance along the Third Transport Ring is 40% shorter than via the Suez Canal, and the travel time is saved by 10 to 15 days.
"The first pilot call of the NewNew Shipping Line container ship to the port of Murmansk is scheduled for August 2026," said Svetlana Panfilova.
As part of the development of industrial cooperation, Svetlana Panfilova invited Chinese partners to participate in mineral extraction projects, as well as in the creation of shipbuilding and ship repair facilities, emphasizing that 100% of the Murmansk region has been granted special economic zone status, which provides significant tax incentives.
A separate section highlighted the prospects for the tourism industry. The Murmansk Region already holds the title of leader in Arctic tourism in Russia: every third traveler heading beyond the Arctic Circle chooses the Kola Peninsula. Moreover, among all foreign tourists visiting the region, guests from China confidently hold the top spot.
Summarizing her speech, Svetlana Panfilova emphasized the region's interest in developing long-term economic and investment ties with the People's Republic of China. The Murmansk Region, with its unique geographic location, strong industrial and logistics potential, and preferential treatment throughout its territory, is poised to become a reliable Arctic outpost for Chinese business.
/Ministry of Arctic Development and Economy of the Murmansk Region/
Photo: Russian-Chinese Guild of Commerce
