Russia to Ban Sales of High-Nicotine Tobacco-Free Mixtures

A new ban on the sale of tobacco-free nicotine mixtures for heated smoking devices may come into force in Russia as early as March 1, 2025. Government sources informed Izvestia that amendments to the bill, which prohibits the sale of tobacco-free heating mixtures containing more than 3.5% nicotine, have received approval from the government commission on legislative activity.

Protecting Citizens’ Health from Nicotine-Containing Products

The State Duma adopted the bill in its first reading at the end of June 2024, as Vladimir Gruzdev, Chairman of the Board of the Association of Lawyers of Russia (ALR), recalled. The draft federal law aims to enhance the protection of citizens’ health from the negative consequences of consuming nicotine-containing products, aligning with the Concept of State Policy to Combat the Consumption of Tobacco and Nicotine-Containing Products in the Russian Federation for the Period up to 2035 and beyond.

Concept Targets Reduction in Nicotine Use Prevalence

The concept sets specific goals for reducing the prevalence of nicotine use in Russia. By 2024, the prevalence should not exceed 26.5%, and by 2035, it is expected to decrease further to 21%. However, Gruzdev noted that the popularization of new types of smoking and pseudo-smoking products among young people, often positioned as safer alternatives, hinders the achievement of these targets.

Tobacco-Free Heating Mixtures Gain Popularity Among Youth

Tobacco-free heating mixtures, such as hookah mixtures based on non-tobacco raw materials, have gained particular popularity among young people. Experts warn that these products can hide serious health risks, emphasizing the need to update legislation and maintain measures aimed at preventing the consumption of tobacco products in any form.

The upcoming ban on high-nicotine tobacco-free mixtures represents a significant step in Russia’s efforts to protect public health and reduce the prevalence of nicotine use, particularly among the younger generation.

News source: Очередной запрет для курильщиков может вступить в силу уже с нового года

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