The High-Tech Park (HTP) is a special preferential regime provided by the government to companies engaged in information technology activities.

HTP was established in accordance with Decree No. 12 of September 22, 2005, titled “On the High-Tech Park.”

Currently, the activities of HTP are regulated by the aforementioned Decree, the HTP Regulations approved by the Decree, as well as Decree No. 8 of December 21, 2017, titled “On the Development of the Digital Economy,” and the Presidential Decree No. 102 of April 12, 2023, titled “On the Development of the High-Tech Park.”

One of the distinguishing features of HTP in Belarus, as compared to many foreign countries, is its virtual nature. This means that a legal entity meeting HTP requirements can become its resident and enjoy benefits regardless of its physical location within the territory of Belarus. In other words, becoming a resident and utilizing all HTP advantages is possible whether a company’s office is situated in a major city or a small town.

To become a member of the High Technologies Park (HTP) in Belarus, a company must primarily engage in IT activities. This includes software development, IT consulting, hardware production, and other related IT services. Additionally, the company must meet specific criteria regarding revenue generation, export potential, and intellectual property creation. It’s essential to note that while the HTP is primarily focused on IT, there are some ancillary activities permitted within the park.

The High Technologies Park (HTP) administration is the entity responsible for accepting HTP residents. They evaluate applications, assess business plans, and make the final decision on granting residency status.

Work in the High Technologies Park (HTP) is organized primarily around IT-related activities. Companies within the park engage in software development, IT consulting, hardware production, and other tech-focused endeavors. The HTP provides a conducive environment for these companies to operate with benefits such as tax incentives, simplified administrative procedures, and access to a skilled IT workforce.

Essentially, the HTP fosters a dynamic ecosystem where IT companies can innovate, grow, and contribute to the Belarusian economy.

The High Technologies Park (HTP) management organization typically offers a range of services to support resident companies and foster a conducive business environment. These services can include:

• Administrative Support: This encompasses company registration, licensing, permit acquisition, and other bureaucratic procedures.
• Tax and Legal Consulting: Providing guidance on tax regulations, incentives, and legal matters specific to HTP residents.
• Infrastructure Development: Building and maintaining the necessary infrastructure, such as office spaces, IT networks, and utilities.
• Talent Acquisition and Development: Assisting companies in finding and retaining skilled IT professionals through training programs and recruitment support.
• Business Development: Facilitating networking opportunities, market entry strategies, and investor connections for HTP residents.
• Financial Support: Offering access to funding options, such as loans, grants, and investment opportunities.
• Research and Development Support: Encouraging innovation through collaborations, research grants, and technology transfer initiatives.

With the aim of expanding and improving the operating regime of HTP residents, Decree No. 8 of December 21, 2017, titled “On the Development of the Digital Economy,” was adopted.

In just 2 years since the adoption of the aforementioned Decree, the number of HTP residents has grown fivefold.

In 2021, 417 new companies joined HTP, while in 2023, there were 130. Today, HTP boasts more than 1,000 residents and approximately 65,000 employees.

• The High-Tech Park (HTP) undeniably serves as a significant magnet for foreign investments. With over 35% of its residents representing companies with foreign capital, HTP demonstrates its global significance. The volume of direct foreign investments contributed to the park in 2022 reached an impressive mark of approximately $400 million.
• The High-Tech Park stands as a true leader in Belarus’ foreign trade. In 2021, the export of services provided by HTP residents reached an all-time high, amounting to $3.2 billion. In 2022, this figure amounted to $2.7 billion, approaching 30% of Belarus’ total service exports. The positive trade balance of HTP in 2022 reached $2.4 billion.
• The High-Tech Park plays a pivotal role in Belarus’ economic landscape, making a substantial contribution to the country’s GDP, currently accounting for 4% of the total.
• Furthermore, the High-Tech Park boasts impressive growth statistics. In 2022, the production volume of HTP residents amounted to a remarkable 8 billion 280 million Belarusian rubles.
• Beyond its financial contributions, HTP serves as a significant taxpayer, contributing to the country’s budget. According to data from the Ministry of Taxes and Levies of Belarus, HTP residents contributed a significant sum of 750.1 million rubles to the budget in 2022.
• In addition to its financial benefits, the High-Tech Park also creates new job opportunities, bolstering the country’s economic structure. In 2022, HTP residents managed to create nearly 7,000 new jobs.
• Notably, HTP’s attractiveness to foreign specialists willing to relocate to Belarus is of paramount importance. Data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus indicates that over the past four years, approximately 3,500 foreign experts have recognized the appeal of this territory for their relocation. This is of great significance as it allows for the maximum utilization of the country’s educational, research, and other potential resources.