The Russian Federation Council has approved a legal amendment allowing the blocking of websites containing information on the online sale of tobacco, nicotine products, heated tobacco, and hookah-related products without a court order. These websites will be included in Russia’s unified register of prohibited information. If signed by the president, the law will come into effect on March 1, 2026.
Key Points
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The Russian Federation Council approved the relevant legal amendment at a plenary session.
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The amendment concerns the online sale of tobacco, nicotine products, heated tobacco, and hookah products.
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Websites containing infringing information can be blocked without a court order.
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The websites will be added to Russia’s register of prohibited information.
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The law is expected to come into effect on March 1, 2026, provided the president signs it.
Federation Council Approval at Plenary Session
December 26, 2025 – According to TASS, the Russian Federation Council approved a law at a plenary session allowing the blocking of websites containing information on the online sale of tobacco and nicotine products without a court order.
Scope of Products Covered by the Amendment
According to the legal amendment. The relevant content concerns products including tobacco, nicotine products, hookah, and heated tobacco (such as IQOS). Websites containing such information will be included in Russia’s unified register of prohibited information and can be blocked directly in accordance with the law.
Amendments to Information and Technology Legislation
The amendment proposes corresponding changes to the Law on Information, Information Technologies, and Information Protection. Legal experts suggest that website owners will be obligated to monitor their platforms for online sales information related to the aforementioned products and take timely measures to address it.
Precedent in Blocking Online Alcohol Sales
The legislative explanation notes that a similar blocking mechanism without judicial review has previously been applied to online alcohol sales information and has proven effective in combating illegal remote transactions. Including those conducted on e-commerce platforms.
Expected Implementation Date
If the Russian president signs the law, the relevant provisions will officially come into effect on March 1, 2026.
