Strategic Prospects for Coal Chemistry: Diversification of Resource-Based Regions

<jats:p>The coal chemical industry supports the development of resource-based regions by establishing new production chains and improving technological processes. As a prospective object of strategizing, it represents a complex socio-technical and economic system comprising sub-sectors, enterprises, and value chains for coal-based chemical products. Its sustainable development is impossible within a mono-industrial framework as it requires the parallel development of an intersectoral industrial complex, specialized equipment, catalysts, engineering, R&amp;D, personnel training, and a technological entrepreneurship ecosystem. A retrospective analysis of global experience reveals several key factors for the development of coal chemistry: a technological core (pyrolysis, gasification, direct and indirect hydrogenation), the capability to transfer and subsequently develop indigenous technologies, institutional policy consistency combined with a long-term investment horizon, and advanced mechanical and scientific engineering schools. An analysis of the pros and cons of coal chemistry in Russia shows that critical assessments tend to reflect tactical rationality based on current price and technology structures. In contrast, strategic planning must account for long-term deglobalization trends, external constraints, and the potential diversification of the raw material base for organic synthesis. The Kemerovo Region currently relies on an extractive model focused on mining for raw material export. It should transition to an industrial-technological model that integrates mining with coal chemistry, high-value-added products, equipment manufacturing, engineering, and R&amp;D. This model ensures multiplier effects across the region’s industry while reducing its current dependence on raw materials.</jats:p>