Page 96 - RusRPTSept19

is attributed to the growing role of internet advertising where small and medium-sized advertisers work directly bypassing the ad agencies, according to the authors of the study. As reported by bne IntelliNews, advertising spending in Russia in 1Q19 stood at RUB111bn ($1.7bn), the growth of the ad market slowing down to 4% from 13% for the same quarter of 2018.
9.1.8 Telecoms sector news
Russian President Vladimir Putin has supported the Security Council’s prohibition of allocation of the 3.4–3.8 GHz frequencies, currently occupied by the military, for 5G, business daily Vedomosti reported on Thursday, quoting several sources. Deputy Prime Minister Maxim Akimov asked Putin in April to order conversion of the band, which is mainly used by the Defence Ministry and state corporation Roscosmos, for civil purposes. The ministry said it is too early to give the frequencies, most widely used internationally for 5G, to operators. A spokesperson for Akimov said comprehensive work is in progress, and the government is engaging operators to pilot zone projects and is studying options of the local industry to deal with different ranges, including 4.4–4.99 GHz. The Digital Development Ministry is also considering a 4.4–4.99 GHz band as priority for 5G. The band is close to the 3.4–3.8 GHz frequencies by its technical characteristics, but few equipment can work on it. The equipment will only be in mass production within 5-7 years, a MegaFon official said. Besides, the band is often used by onboard electric equipment, which also restricts its use. A Tele2 representative said that by rejecting the 3.4–3.8 GHz band Russia is creating its own scenario of technologic development, which requires more expensive network and terminal equipment. A Vimpelcom official said that rare frequencies often mean low investment attractiveness, since their future is unclear, and this will make development of many industries slow.
9.1.9 Tourism sector news
Armenia was the favourite destination for tourists from Russia this summer, according to a survey carried out for newswire Tass by online booking site OneTwoTrip. Armenia led the top three destinations for Russian tourists, ahead of Italy and Turkey, the survey showed, with 8.5% of tickets bought by respondents going to Armenia. Georgia remained among the top 10 destinations for Russian tourists this summer, despite a ban on direct flights
96 RUSSIA Country Report September 2019 www.intellinews.com