Russian Agency Calls for Licensing System for Tobacco Retail Industry

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
Jul.24.2024
Russian Agency Calls for Licensing System for Tobacco Retail Industry
Russia considers introducing tobacco retail licenses, aiming to reduce illicit market share and increase revenue, according to DK.RU.

According to DK.RU's report on July 23rd, Igor Alyoshin, Director of the Russian Federal Service for Tobacco and Alcohol Control, stated that it is necessary to introduce a licensing system for the retail of tobacco products.


The retail regulation of tobacco products is one of the most important issues. We suggest authorizing and licensing sales points similar to the way alcohol is regulated, with regulatory responsibilities being handed over to the local governments of the Russian Federation. This can not only bring additional revenue to the budget but also immediately reduce the market share of illicit tobacco.


Starting from March 1, 2024, a new law has been introduced regarding the regulation of the tobacco industry, tobacco products, nicotine-containing products, and their production and distribution. Under this law, tobacco businesses must obtain a license and register their main equipment. While a license is not required for retailing tobacco products, there are now limitations on their packaging, transport, and labeling.


Athens revealed that as of July, there have been 225 market participants granted licenses, with 190 being manufacturers and the rest being importers.


We have seen the positive effects of the licensing system in the tobacco industry, with an increase in production, rising consumption tax revenues (including e-cigarettes), and the market becoming more regulated. If production is found to be carried out on unregistered equipment, licenses may be revoked. Manufacturers do not want to take on such risks.


The spokesperson stated that controlling the sale of traditional cigarettes is much simpler than e-cigarettes, as most cigarettes are sold in stores that already have alcohol sales permits.


Starting September 1, 2023, the functions of the former Tobacco Control Department have been expanded to include authority over tobacco and nicotine-containing products. The department has been renamed as the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Bureau.


At the same time, representatives of the federal parliament also joined the discussion. Senator Ayrat Gibatdinov told RIA Novosti that Russia needs to establish a unified register of tobacco shops.


I believe it is necessary to create a unified register for tobacco shops, assign them a unique number, and place it on every shelf, display case, and cash register. This system can help identify points of sale for nicotine products. Additionally, it is important to develop an application (similar to apps for reporting traffic violations), where every citizen can report and transmit data on violations in the sale of these products.


The congressman stated that he has already contacted Anna Popova, the Director of the Russian Federal Transportation Agency, to request consideration of the proposal.


In addition, Russian State Duma representatives have stated that they will continue to crack down on e-cigarettes. Currently, they are considering a bill that would completely ban the sale of nicotine and non-nicotine devices in Russia.


Notice

1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.

2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.

Copyright

This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.

This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.

2Firsts, ITGA Partner to Support Tobacco Growers
2Firsts, ITGA Partner to Support Tobacco Growers
2Firsts and the International Tobacco Growers’ Association (ITGA) have formed a strategic partnership covering media collaboration, event co-organization, Greater China representation, and joint publications to support the transformation and sustainable development of the tobacco-growing sector.
Jun.04
JTI UK Launches 3 New Nordic Spirit Nicotine Pouch Flavors
JTI UK Launches 3 New Nordic Spirit Nicotine Pouch Flavors
Japan Tobacco International has announced the launch of three new Nordic Spirit nicotine pouch flavors in the UK: Raspberry, Tropical Mix, and Forest Berries. The new products are designed to enhance sensory experience by improving flavor release speed and moisture levels. They are now available to both independent retailers and major chains.
May.13 by 2FIRSTS.ai
2Firsts Successfully Hosts NGP+AI Workshop, Launches Global Call for Outstanding AI Application Cases
2Firsts Successfully Hosts NGP+AI Workshop, Launches Global Call for Outstanding AI Application Cases
On April 15, 2025, 2Firsts held its first “NGP+AI” workshop in Shenzhen, focusing on real-world AI applications in the NGP industry—from formula digitization to automated flavor development and compliance tools. The event gathered professionals across R&D and tech roles. 2Firsts also launched a global call for outstanding NGP+AI use cases, offering media exposure, resource access, and innovation support to accelerate the industry’s intelligent transformation.
May.08
Thai Government Approves Five Vaping Control Measures Targeting Online Sales and Media Promotion
Thai Government Approves Five Vaping Control Measures Targeting Online Sales and Media Promotion
Thailand approves five measures to protect youth from e-cigarettes, including vape-free schools, limits on ads, and a crackdown on online sales.
May.21 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Malaysian Ministry of Health Forms Special Committee to Tackle Student Vaping Abuse
Malaysian Ministry of Health Forms Special Committee to Tackle Student Vaping Abuse
The Malaysian Ministry of Health has established a special committee to investigate the misuse of e-cigarettes among students and to evaluate the implementation of the Public Health (Control of Smoking Products) Act 2024. The minister emphasized that regulations will be driven by evidence.
May.14 by 2FIRSTS.ai
VEEV Shifts UK Strategy: Discontinues Disposables, Rolls Out 32 Pod-Based SKUs In May
VEEV Shifts UK Strategy: Discontinues Disposables, Rolls Out 32 Pod-Based SKUs In May
VEEV, a PMI vaping brand, listed 32 new SKUs with the UK MHRA in May 2025, including VEEV ONE and ONE SE devices and 30 pod flavors. Its UK website shows the VEEV NOW disposable is discontinued, with the VEEV ONE series now available on the market.
May.20 by 2FIRSTS.ai