Abstract <p>The article analyzes the specific features, limitations, and results of implementing four existing instruments of state support for the Kuril Islands: (1) a federal target program and preferential regimes; (2)&#xa0;priority development areas; (3) tax regime of the Kuril Islands; (4) special economic zone. It was revealed that the federal target program, as well as previous programs for the development of the Kuril Islands, is characterized by insufficient systematicity in the formation and implementation of many activities, as well as regular rejection or adjustment of planned economic measures towards reduction. Among the preferential regimes, the most successful, having a significant impact on the development of the islands, is the Kuril Islands priority development area. The tax regime of the Kuril Islands has so far demonstrated a limited positive effect, mainly in the development of the tourism industry. The extension of the special economic zone regime to the Kuril Islands under the current conditions of its operation does not yield significant results. Despite the identified limitations in the implementation of the federal target program and the operation of preferential regimes, their combined effect has had a positive impact on the dynamics of the socioeconomic development of the Kuril Islands since 2015: the federal target program has improved the social indicators of the quality of life of the local population, while residents of the priority development area have given a significant boost to economic development. Provided that the studied instruments of regional policy are fine-tuned, further improvement in the socioeconomic situation of the Kuril Islands can be expected.</p>