Russia's Finance Ministry Proposes Regional Vape Sales Bans from 2026
Russia's Finance Ministry proposes allowing regions to ban vape sales from 2026 to 2031, with support from Putin and Minister Alikhanov.Summary
The Russian Finance Ministry has drafted amendments that would permit regional governments to ban the retail sale of vapes and e-liquids between September 1, 2026, and September 1, 2031. Each region must pass its own legislation and notify Rosalkogoltabakkontrol to implement the ban. Violators, including retailers and suppliers, risk license revocation. President Putin and Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov have publicly expressed support for a total prohibition. Several regions, including Nizhny Novgorod and Vologda, have already begun tightening regulations, with some vape shops being shut down. Russia’s vape market was valued at ₽250 billion (approximately USD 2.7 billion) in 2025, a 51.9% increase year-over-year, while traditional cigarette smoking decreased by 42.2%.
(Source：2Firsts)
