Russian President Putin Approves Criminal Code Amendments to Crack Down on Illegal Nicotine and Tobacco Products

Jul.24

Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved amendments to the Criminal Code to intensify the crackdown on illegal alcohol and tobacco activities, with penalties of up to three years in prison.

Key points:

·Putin approves amendments to the Penal Code, strengthening penalties for unmarked alcohol and tobacco products.

·The new regulations establish clear responsibilities for illegal manufacturing and selling of nicotine products.

·Those found producing counterfeit labels will face severe punishment, up to three years in prison.

·The law will take effect 10 days after official publication, aiming to combat the illegal market.

【2Firsts News Flash】According to a report by garant on July 23, Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved amendments to the Russian Federation Criminal Code. These amendments are stipulated in Federal Law No. 234-FZ of July 23, 2025, specifically modifying Articles 171-1 and 327-1 of the Criminal Code.

According to the new law, nicotine products without labels or necessary information will be treated as illegal products, similar to tobacco. Penalties for such violations include fines of up to 500,000 rubles (approximately $6,600), forced labor for up to three years, or a maximum of three years in prison, with an additional fine of up to 120,000 rubles (approximately $1,600). Violations exceeding 100,000 rubles (approximately $1,300) are considered serious offenses, while those exceeding 1,000,000 rubles (approximately $13,000) are classified as exceptionally serious.

In addition, the amendment also specifies legal responsibility for the identification, tax stamps, and special markings of counterfeit alcoholic beverages and tobacco products. This includes the production, sale, or use of counterfeit labels.

The bill will come into effect 10 days after its official release. This is aimed at strengthening prevention of illegal product manufacturing and distribution, in order to uphold market order and consumer rights.

References:

[1] Подделка акцизных марок на табачную продукцию повлечет уголовную ответственность

Also Read:

[1] Tula Region of Russia Seizes 5,200 Packs of Illegal Tobacco Products in First Half of the Year, Over 100 Cases Filed

[2] Moscow Store Caught Selling Tobacco Illegally Ordered to Shut Down; Court Bans Leasing Premises for Tobacco Sales

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