By Timothy S. Donahue
Top Takeaways:
- Policy push: Russian lawmakers plan May vote on giving regions power to ban vape sales
- Health argument: Officials cite rising respiratory cases tied to vaping, especially among youth
- Public backing: Poll shows 74% support for a ban on all vape product and e-liquid sales
Russia is moving closer to a patchwork of vape bans, as lawmakers prepare to grant regional authorities the power to prohibit sales outright.
Vyacheslav Volodin said that an amendment under consideration in the State Duma would allow individual regions to ban the sale of e-cigarettes and related products, with a decision expected as early as May. The proposal marks a significant escalation in Russia’s tightening stance on vaping, shifting from national restrictions to localized enforcement powers.
“The issue concerns the health of citizens, especially children,” Volodin said, framing the measure as a public health priority.
The push comes amid growing concern among officials about the health impact of vaping. Volodin said doctors have recorded a 30% increase in patients with respiratory diseases “caused or aggravated by vaping,” adding that adolescents and people under 35 are the most affected.
He described the trend as “a cause for concern,” especially given the rising youth uptake. The proposal also appears to enjoy strong political and public backing.
According to Volodin, a recent poll found that 74% of respondents support a complete ban on the sale of vapes and e-liquids, and “an overwhelming majority” of State Duma deputies share that position.
He added that parents, educators, and medical professionals have also called for stricter measures. Volodin said he had previously raised the issue with followers on his public channel, signaling an effort to gauge public sentiment ahead of legislative action.
The amendment would not impose a nationwide ban outright but would instead give regional governments the authority to act independently—potentially leading to a fragmented regulatory landscape across Russia.
