ECONOMIC MODEL FOR “SMART SETTELMENT” CATEGORISATION

Author(s): Pushkin A.L.

Rubric: Economics of sustainable development

DOI: 10.21777/2587-554X-2025-3-50-58

Release: 2025-3 (54)

Pages: 50-58

Keywords: “Smart settlements”, regional development, digital transformation, economic categorisation, sustainable devel- opment, agglomeration economies, digitalisation

Annotation: The study clarifies the conceptual uncertainty of “smart settlements” (whether cities or villages) by proposing a new economic categorization system for Russia’s sustainable regional development. Despite widespread academic and governmental interest, this area suffers from definitional inconsistencies and unclear public-private responsi- bility distribution. The research develops a five-tier classification system: Internet settlements (basic connectivity), E-platform villages (online commerce communities), Smart agro-settlements (technology-enhanced agriculture), Smart manufacturing settlements (cyber-physical production hubs), and Resource settlements (natural resources and data centres). Each category is analysed through technological requirements, economic potential, and im- plementation challenges using Russian and international examples, particularly from China. Key findings reveal that successful “smart settlements” require diversified economic activities, strong inter-regional connectivity, and careful consideration of geographical factors. The proposed system provides a framework for developing targeted strategies, optimizing resources, and creating sustainable agglomeration economies.

Bibliography: Pushkin A.L. ECONOMIC MODEL FOR “SMART SETTELMENT” CATEGORISATION // Economics and Management. – 2025. – № 3 (54). – С. 50-58. doi: 10.21777/2587-554X-2025-3-50-58