Debating the Ban of E-Cigarettes in Russia

In January 2023, Vyacheslav Volokin, Chairman of the Russian State Duma, initiated a public opinion survey on the management of electronic cigarettes in Russia. Approximately 70% of respondents advocated for a complete ban on e-cigarettes, while over 25% supported strict enforcement against the sale of these products to minors.

This topic has sparked widespread discussion.

The Russian Ministry of Finance has stated that a complete ban on electronic cigarettes could have the opposite effect, leading to significant budget losses, increased growth of the black market, and exacerbating health and safety risks faced by consumers. Not everyone supports the federal authorities' idea.

In a letter to Dmitry Khubezov, the Chairman of the Health Protection Committee of the State Duma, the Ministry of Finance mentioned that the government has taken into account the consequences of second-hand smoke, tobacco consumption, or the use of nicotine products while discussing amendments to laws related to health protection.

The Ministry of Finance believes that the "honest labeling" electronic cigarette regulation method introduced on December 15, 2022, will help legalize the electronic cigarette market.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Finance has stated that a draft of technical regulations for the Eurasian Economic Union is currently being prepared. This document will establish mandatory requirements for such products within the territories of the Eurasian Economic Union.

Reference:

What will be the consequences of the ban on vaping?