By Timothy S. Donahue
Top Takeaways:
Full ban proposal: Russian lawmakers are considering legislation that would prohibit the sale of all vape products nationwide.
Broad political support: The proposal has been signed by members of multiple political factions and is backed by several regional leaders.
Illicit market risk: Officials acknowledge that banning legal sales could reduce tax revenue and push vape products into the black market.
A senior Russian lawmaker says the country may eventually impose a nationwide ban on vape sales, as the State Duma debates legislation currently before it.
Yaroslav Nilov, chair of the State Duma Committee on Labour, Social Policy, and Veterans’ Affairs, confirmed in an interview that a bill proposing a complete ban on vape sales is being considered, though lawmakers have not yet made a final decision.
“Before it is too late, vapes need to be stopped,” Nilov said. “This draft law is in the State Duma. It is an initiative signed by representatives of almost all factions, but the decision has not yet been finalized.”
Nilov suggested that political momentum behind the measure is increasing, noting that several regional leaders have already voiced support for tougher action against vaping products.
He pointed to Anton Alikhanov, the former governor of the Kaliningrad region who now serves as Russia’s minister of industry and trade, as well as Nizhny Novgorod Governor Gleb Nikitin, both of whom have publicly expressed concerns about vaping in discussions with federal officials.
According to Nilov, the debate shows growing concern among policymakers about rising vape use in Russia, especially among younger consumers.
He said the number of vape users in the country is increasing, while the age of those using the products is decreasing. Nilov also argued that modern vape devices have advanced past being just basic nicotine delivery systems.
“Today they are sophisticated, smart gadgets that create a certain dependence,” he said, warning that technologies such as artificial intelligence could eventually be integrated into devices, potentially making them harder for regulators to control.
Despite advocating for stricter regulation, Nilov recognized that a complete ban would involve policy trade-offs.
Vape products are taxed in Russia, generating government revenue. Ending legal sales might lower tax income and could encourage illegal trade.
“These are excisable goods, and this is part of budget revenue,” Nilov said. “Of course, there is a risk that vapes will go into the shadow market and continue to be sold.”
Russia has gradually increased regulation of vaping products in recent years. The government previously implemented restrictions on sales to minors, advertising bans, and stricter rules for retail distribution.
However, Nilov suggested that those measures might not be making an impact. “Unfortunately, today this so-called civilized regulation is not producing results,” he said.
While the proposed legislation is still under debate, the discussion indicates that Russia might be shifting toward one of the toughest regulations on vaping among major markets if lawmakers ultimately approve a complete sales ban.
