Russia to Tighten Online Restrictions on Cigarette Sales
Government Commission Backs Online Sales Ban
A Russian government commission has approved a proposal, effective March 1, 2025, to limit data related to the online sale of cigarettes and smoke-tar products. Social networks will also be required to block information promoting cigarette sales.
Conditional Support for Draft Law
As Versia reported on November 11, the commission has given conditional support to a draft law aimed at restricting online retail data.
The bill seeks to curb information about the online sale of cigarettes and products containing smoky tar. However, further amendments are required before it proceeds to a second reading in the State Duma.
Details of the Proposed Bill
The draft law, Bill No. 650932-8, was submitted in June by a group of lawmakers.
If approved, the law will take effect on March 1, 2025, though implementation will begin no earlier than 90 days after official publication.
The proposal includes amendments to Sections 10.6 and 15.1 of the Information Act, which would formally restrict the remote (online) sale of cigarettes and tobacco-tar products.
Social Networks Required to Block Cigarette-Related Content
If enacted, the law would oblige social networks and online platforms to block any information or advertisements related to cigarette sales.
This measure is part of a broader government strategy to limit access to tobacco products through digital channels.
Inclusion in the Unified List of Banned Information
The proposed amendments also stipulate that the Unified List of Banned Data—maintained by the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications,
Information Technology, and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor)—will include information about this ban.
Lawmakers emphasized that websites, social media, and messaging apps have become major conduits for low-cost counterfeit or smuggled tobacco products, making stronger oversight necessary.
Alignment with Existing Health Protection Laws
The bill’s authors note that the proposal aligns with Part 3 of Article 19 of Federal Law No. 15, which already prohibits the remote retail sale of cigarette goods to protect citizens’ health and the environment.
Expected Impact on the Tobacco Market
According to the government’s review, the bill would strengthen enforcement of the ban on remote tobacco sales and improve control over the distribution of cigarette and tar-containing products.
If passed by the State Duma, the legislation is expected to significantly reshape Russia’s tobacco market, potentially influencing both consumer behavior and illegal trade practices.
