DEVELOPING POLICY OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY IN THE CONTEXT OF THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC (EVIDENCE OF IRAN AND RUSSIA)

Abstract

Aim. To study the development of the digital economy in the context of the coronavirus pandemic in two countries - Iran and Russia. Methodology. Methods of comparative analysis, comparison, generalization and interpretation of research results were used. Results. The results showed that both countries are trying to issue appropriate regulations and improve infrastructure to increase the contribution of the digital economy to GDP in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. Research implications. To strengthen the digital economy, Iran and Russia must improve the performance of SMEs, which are potential and suitable engines of digital economic growth in the economy. Three different strategies are explained and recommended: increasing companies’ access to finance, improving the e-business environment, and creating the government support system for SMEs, that will help SMEs improve the efficiency of the digital economy in the context of the negative impact of COVID-19.