The Russian Consumer Protection and Public Welfare Supervision Service has blocked a Kazan-based website selling cigarettes. Vapes and other nicotine-containing products online because it could make them easily accessible to minors.
Key points:
1. Russia blocked a website illegally selling tobacco products and vapes by legal means and online sales channels were restricted.
2. The risk of minors buying tobacco products leads to court intervention.
3. Russia has implemented a ban on the sale of nicotine-containing products on the Internet since 2021 and has further restricted the public display and sale of nicotine-consuming devices such as vapes since June 1, 2024.
Russia cracks down on illegal online sales
According to Business-Gazeta reported on April 8. Russia’s Consumer Protection and Public Welfare Supervision Service blocked through court action a Kazan-based online sale of cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and other nicotine-containing products. The move was taken to court because the site could make such products easily accessible to minors.
The consumer rights protection agency filed a lawsuit with the Vachitov District Court, pointing out that during online purchases, sellers are unable to verify the age of buyers, increasing the risk of minors accessing vapes and cigarettes. Ultimately, the court upheld the department’s request, and access to the website in question is now restricted.
As of January 28, 2021, Russia has implemented regulations banning the sale of nicotine-containing products and devices for their use on the Internet. On July 31 of the same year, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law banning the sale and use of vapes, vapes, and other nicotine-containing products to minors and in public places. The aim is to restrict the circulation of nicotine products across the board.
On June 1, 2024, Russia officially implemented a law banning the public display and sale of vapes. E-hookahs and other nicotine-consuming devices, as well as restricting their sale at fairs, exhibitions and vending machines.
