Russian MPs support entire prohibition of vapes
(MENAFN) Russian lawmakers are prepared to approve a total ban on the sale of vapes, following statements by State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin that only tough measures can protect children from what he called “liquid poison.”
The proposal came after Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov advocated for a complete prohibition, arguing that age limits on purchases were failing to keep vapes away from minors. Alikhanov, a father of several children, stressed the need to act decisively against sellers who ignore the rules.
Volodin supported the proposal and called on the government to submit a corresponding bill, adding that parliament would prioritize it and approve it promptly.
He described the health risks of vaping as well documented, noting that e-liquids often contain heavy metals and toxic compounds. Previous legislation banning the sale of vapes to minors has not gotten the intended results, Volodin said.
“Despite penalties, dishonest sellers continue to market these products to children. The only way to solve this is a complete ban and removal from store shelves.”
A 2023 SuperJob poll shows that the use of vapes in Russia has nearly tripled in the last few years. Currently, 21% of smokers use only vapes, and 16% use both vapes and traditional cigarettes — up from 8% and 12% in 2019. According to media reports, 3.5–4 million people in Russia use electronic delivery systems for nicotine.
Some critics warn a total ban may drive sales into the black market and cut nearly 15 billion rubles ($189 million) in annual revenue. To make up for the losses, health authorities have suggested raising taxes on traditional cigarettes instead.
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