Achieving Technological Sovereignty in Refining Catalysts Production

Abstract

The authors consider the processes in the sphere of oil refining catalysts production, starting from the late Soviet period up to the present, with a focus on the perception of these processes by their actors. It shows the movement from technological leadership to dependence on Western companies and loss of technological independence to the restoration of Russian companies’ positions through the interaction of government, science and business. The study used narrative analysis of in-depth interviews of Academy and business experts, as well as sources in academic literature and scientific journalism. Two alternative possibilities of ensuring technological sovereignty are considered, one emphasizing autarkic development, the other – in cooperation with the BRICS countries, in particular with the PRC. The authors promote the ideas of “seamlessness” of the technological chain of production and concentration on the state priorities of ensuring technological sovereignty with the interaction of all stakeholders.