Moscow Sets High Fines for Online Tobacco and E-cigarette Sales

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
Aug.14.2024
Moscow Sets High Fines for Online Tobacco and E-cigarette Sales
Russia imposes high fines on online tobacco and e-cigarette sales violators, with a maximum penalty of 30,000 rubles.

According to a report by PNP on August 14th, online sales of tobacco and e-cigarettes in Russia will be subject to heavy fines, with violators facing fines of up to 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,300). This amendment was proposed by the Moscow City Duma as part of the Administrative Offenses Code.


According to reports, current laws have already banned the remote sale of tobacco products, products containing nicotine, shisha, and related equipment, but in practice, this regulation is often overlooked. Legislators proposing amendments have pointed out that between November 2023 and January 2024, a total of 471 potentially harmful online resources were discovered, with these websites either selling nicotine-containing products or advertising related products.


To this end, the new law proposes establishing regulations for the remote sale of tobacco and nicotine products, mirroring the management of remote alcohol sales, to ensure responsible information dissemination.


According to this amendment, ordinary citizens who violate the regulations will be fined between 3000 and 5000 rubles, government officials will face fines of 20,000 to 40,000 rubles, and businesses may be fined 100,000 to 300,000 rubles.


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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.

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