By 2030, the volume of the Russian agro-industrial complex is planned to increase by at least a quarter. Additionally, over the next 6 years, the export of the agro-industrial complex should grow 15 times. This necessity is confirmed by the presidential decree of the Russian Federation dated May 7, 2024. Against the backdrop of global economic trends, the development of rural areas is no longer perceived as a routine and unpromising task of the state. On the contrary, digitalization has brought unexpected opportunities and even advantages to rural residents. Engaging in agriculture and building a life outside the metropolis has become a trendy move, especially among young people, after the pandemic. At the same time, digital technologies have entered the agro-industrial sector, creating a need for qualified personnel. Thus, the rapid development of marketplaces has created significant market niches for farmers and producers of agro-tourism goods, providing a direct access channel to the consumer. One of the symbols of this transformation is the Chinese Taobao villages, which, with the support of the state and large online retail, have reached previously unimaginable volumes of sales of rural enterprises' products and services. Recently, there has been much discussion about the development potential of rural areas in Russia as well. Whether the Russian village can become a growth point for the future economy will be discussed at SPIEF in a dedicated session.