Статья: The shadow economy in Russia

Shadow economy, also known as the informal economy, black market, or underground economy, plays a significant role in modern Russia. It refers to all economic activities that are hidden from the government in order to evade taxes, regulations, or monitoring. The shadow economy exists in every country, but it is particularly prominent in Russia due to various factors such as high levels of corruption, bureaucratic red tape, and a complex tax system.

The essence of the shadow economy lies in the fact that businesses and individuals engage in illegal or unregulated activities to avoid the high costs associated with operating within the formal economy. This can include everything from undeclared work and unregistered businesses to smuggling, counterfeiting, and money laundering. While these activities may provide immediate benefits to those involved, they also have negative consequences for the overall economy.

One of the main reasons for the shadow economy's prevalence in Russia is the high level of corruption among government officials. Bribery and kickbacks are common practices, making it difficult for businesses to operate legally and ethically. As a result, many companies choose to operate in the shadows to avoid paying bribes or dealing with corrupt officials.

Another factor contributing to the shadow economy is the complex tax system in Russia. High tax rates and complicated regulations make it difficult for businesses to comply with the law. As a result, many companies choose to underreport income or engage in other illegal activities to reduce their tax burden. This not only deprives the government of much-needed revenue but also distorts competition and hinders economic growth.

Despite its negative impact, the shadow economy also serves a purpose in Russia. In some cases, it provides employment opportunities for individuals who might otherwise be unemployed. It also allows businesses to survive in a hostile economic environment where operating within the formal economy is prohibitively expensive. However, the benefits of the shadow economy are outweighed by its drawbacks, including lost tax revenue, reduced transparency, and increased inequality.

In order to reduce the size and impact of the shadow economy in Russia, it is important for the government to address the root causes of informality. This includes cracking down on corruption, simplifying the tax system, and reducing bureaucratic barriers to entry. By creating a more business-friendly environment, the government can encourage businesses to operate legally and help stimulate economic growth in the long run.