GDP decreased by 1.8% in January–February 2026. This was stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The transcript of his speech is published on the Kremlin's website.
Manufacturing industries and industrial production in general, as well as such an important, systemically significant area as construction, turned out to be in the red.
Experts note calendar, weather, and so-called seasonal factors among the reasons for the negative dynamics, the head of state noted. So, in January of this year, there were two fewer working days than last year, in February – one less working day. «<…> These are, of course, objective circumstances, but it is obvious that they are not the only ones that determine business and investment activity in the country," Putin said.
He also noted that the unemployment rate, even despite the general economic dynamics, continues to remain at a low level. Currently, unemployment stands at 2.1%.
Recall that the GDP of the Russian Federation in February 2026 decreased by 1.5% year-on-year after a 2.1% decrease in January.
