Russian Proposal to Restrict Nicotine Product Transit

Russia has put forward a proposal to establish standards similar to those for tobacco product restrictions to limit the transportation of unmarked nicotine products within Russia that do not comply with Russian regulations. This bill was discussed and approved during the first reading in a plenary meeting of the State Duma on March 2nd.

Member of the State Duma's Budget and Taxation Committee, Ilya Farakhov, has expressed concern over the circulation of unlabelled nicotine products in Russia. According to Farakhov, these products pose a threat to Russia's interests, primarily due to their lower prices which may entice non-smokers to start smoking and become addicted. Additionally, the sale of unlabelled nicotine products would result in a loss of tax revenue and tariffs, thus negatively impacting the economy.

The proposal suggests allowing individuals to carry up to 200 unlabeled heated tobacco products or up to 50 milliliters of nicotine-containing liquid products within Russia.

According to Mikhail Kizyaev, a member of the Health and Welfare Committee, the restrictions will prevent illegal trading of such products. Some feedback and suggestions have been received and will be considered in the second reading.

Falahov emphasized that current Russian law specifies that individuals may not carry more than 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or cigarillos, or 250 grams of tobacco, or a combination of tobacco products weighing no more than 250 grams and containing no labels indicating nicotine content. However, there are currently no regulations in place regarding heated tobacco products.

Reference:

Restrictions on the transportation of vapes and tobacco heating systems to be introduced in Russia.