#Russia plans to merge the Far East and Arctic into a single preferential business zone from 2027, Far East and Arctic Development Minister Alexey Chekunkov told Kommersant. Investors will receive a 20% federal investment tax deduction and a 15% social contribution rate, while current residents keep existing benefits. Investment in the Far East is targeted to rise from RUB 4.1 trillion to RUB 9.2 trillion annually by 2036.