In a recent address, billionaire entrepreneur and technology advocate, Alexey Mordashov, has called upon Russian companies to develop and adopt an alternative to SAP software. This plea comes as Mordashov emphasizes the need for greater technological sovereignty and independence in the Russian business landscape. On Wednesday, 22 May 2024, Alexey Mordashov expressed concerns regarding the reliance of Russian firms on foreign software, particularly SAP, a widely used enterprise resource planning (ERP) system.
Mordashov argues that this dependency hampers Russia’s ability to control its own digital infrastructure and poses potential risks to national security. SAP, a German multinational corporation, has established a strong presence in the global market, including Russia. Many Russian companies have integrated SAP software into their operations, relying on its functionality and capabilities. However, Mordashov believes that this reliance on foreign technology compromises Russia’s sovereignty and economic independence. Mordashov is urging Russian businesses to invest in the development of a homegrown alternative to SAP.
This initiative seeks to foster innovation within Russia’s technology sector, creating a domestic solution that aligns with the country’s needs and priorities. Mordashov believes that by building a Russian alternative, companies can regain control over their data, reduce reliance on foreign providers, and strengthen national security.
The call for a domestic alternative to SAP software is not without its challenges. Developing a robust and feature-rich ERP system requires significant investment in research, development, and talent acquisition. However, Mordashov emphasizes that the long-term benefits outweigh the initial costs, as it would bolster Russian technological capabilities, enhance data privacy, and stimulate economic growth. Mordashov highlights the success stories of other countries that have pursued similar endeavors.
For instance, China developed its own ERP system, called Ufida, which has gained considerable traction in the Chinese market. This case serves as an inspiration for Russian businesses to embark on a similar path, fostering technological independence and innovation. The Russian government has also shown support for this initiative, recognizing the importance of developing domestic alternatives to foreign software.
In recent years, efforts have been made to strengthen the local technology industry, encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors
