Russia to Introduce Mandatory Electronic Cigarette Labeling

Nov.28.2022
Russia to Introduce Mandatory Electronic Cigarette Labeling
Russia may require Honest Sign digital labels on e-cigarette liquids by December 15. Reusable devices would not be covered.

Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade announced that the digital labeling for honest labeling will become a mandatory requirement for liquids intended only for electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), including nicotine-free liquids in cartridges, capsules, and as part of disposable ENDS, starting from December 15th. Meanwhile, the ministry separately specifies that reusable electronic devices that heat the liquids or produce aerosols from them will not be subject to labeling restrictions.


The "Honest Sign" system is reportedly ready to start labeling electronic cigarettes beginning on December 15th. All of the necessary equipment and supplies for the industry are said to be available on the Russian market.


The Honest Label system - developed by the Center for Advanced Technology Development (CRPT) - was originally scheduled to complete the pilot labeling of this category by February 28, 2023. However, due to requests from merchants, there is now a push to complete the mandatory labeling implementation ahead of schedule.


Vasily Shpak, the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, told TASS news agency in August that the country's federal budget system may lose up to 65 billion US dollars in revenue annually due to the illegal circulation of electronic devices that deliver nicotine and liquids.


Since 2019, Russia has implemented a digital labeling system called "Honest Sign" which is operated by the TsRPT Advanced Technology Development Center. Currently, dairy products and mineral water have been labeled during production, and labels have also been applied to tobacco, drugs, tires, perfumes, light industrial products, shoes, leather goods, and photographic equipment.


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