E-cigarettes in pharmacies? Russian consumer group calls for new rules

Nov.01.2024
E-cigarettes in pharmacies? Russian consumer group calls for new rules
Russian group proposes e-cigarettes as prescription-only, sold exclusively in pharmacies to strengthen regulation.

The Consumers Union of Russia has proposed that e-cigarettes be classified as prescription products and sold exclusively in pharmacies, VM.RU reported on November 1. The proposal was submitted to Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

 

The alliance stated that e-cigarettes and related devices should be treated like medications, requiring a doctor’s prescription for purchase. Currently, around 4.5 million people in Russia use e-cigarettes to satisfy nicotine cravings.

 

Data from Russia’s National Statistics Bureau shows that the smoking rate dropped from 41% in 2009 to 30% in 2023. However, addiction issues remain, particularly concerning e-cigarettes.

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

JTI Invests EUR 300 Million in New Factory in Romania to Advance Its Localized Expansion
JTI Invests EUR 300 Million in New Factory in Romania to Advance Its Localized Expansion
After being present in Romania for more than 30 years, Japan Tobacco International (JTI) announced that it will invest approximately EUR 300 million (about USD 324 million) to build a green, state-of-the-art new factory in Ilfov County, Romania, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the country.
Mar.31 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Alaska AG warns 1,500+ retailers to stop selling unauthorized vapes and nicotine pouches
Alaska AG warns 1,500+ retailers to stop selling unauthorized vapes and nicotine pouches
Alaska’s attorney general has sent warning letters to more than 1,500 retailers and distributors, cautioning them against selling tobacco products — including e-cigarettes and oral nicotine pouches — that lack U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorization.
Mar.06 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Special Report | Belarus Rejects Vape Ban, Opts for Tighter Market Controls
Special Report | Belarus Rejects Vape Ban, Opts for Tighter Market Controls
After weeks of debate over a potential blanket prohibition, Belarus has decided against banning electronic cigarettes, choosing instead to tighten control over wholesale, imports and licensing. President Alexander Lukashenko warned that an outright ban could drive the market underground and undermine state revenues, as officials move to curb widespread illicit trade while keeping retail sales largely intact.
Mar.04
Malaysia anti-tobacco groups call for stronger enforcement as unregulated vapes remain on sale offline and online
Malaysia anti-tobacco groups call for stronger enforcement as unregulated vapes remain on sale offline and online
Anti-tobacco groups in Malaysia say the continued sale of unregulated vapes in physical stores and the online availability of vape devices underline the need for comprehensive enforcement.
Mar.02 by 2FIRSTS.ai
South Dakota Legislature Approves Two Nicotine Licensing Bills Pending Governor’s Decision
South Dakota Legislature Approves Two Nicotine Licensing Bills Pending Governor’s Decision
The South Dakota Legislature gave final approval on Tuesday to two proposals requiring state licenses for businesses that sell nicotine products. Under the bills, wholesalers, distributors and retailers of nicotine products in the state would need to be licensed by the government.
Mar.12 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Australia’s NSW Finds Lower Vaping Rates Among Teenagers Aged 14 to 17
Australia’s NSW Finds Lower Vaping Rates Among Teenagers Aged 14 to 17
A new report from Cancer Council’s Generation Vape research project shows that fewer teenagers in New South Wales are trying vaping after the state government introduced tougher vaping goods laws. Among surveyed NSW teenagers aged 14 to 17, the proportion who had tried vaping fell from 29.6% in April 2024 to 20.1% in October 2025.
Mar.17 by 2FIRSTS.ai