Analysis of the localization factor in the cluster formation processes

The problem of regional polarization is one of the barriers to development of the Russian Federation which have existed for the past 30 years and are still existing. This situation requires developing and implementing effective mechanisms and instruments to constrain the growth of interregional differences with the consideration of Russia’s strategic interests. It is impossible to solve the problem without creating a common economic space on the basis of regional and interregional clusters. The key hypothesis of the research is that unbalanced development of Russian regions is to a large extent the consequence of the established architecture of value chains when for many years the factors of localization of industries have not been taken into account while conducting the economic policy. Finally, as the tool for ensuring balanced development of the territory the cluster approach to industry policy failed to produce any positive results. The authors suggest a new methodological approach allowing to study the process of localization of industries in the space based on the calculated coefficient of localization of industries. The results of the study have allowed to make a conclusion about the necessity of consistent industry policy in the context of the trinity of interrelated and interdependent categories: territorial division of labor – specialization – clusters.