Russia Grants Municipalities Control Over Vape Sales Zones
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has signed a decree transferring the power to regulate tobacco and nicotine-containing product sales to local authorities. This policy shift, effective October 1, 2026, moves away from the previous federal mandate that enforced a flat 100-meter radius measured “as the crow flies” from educational institutions.
The previous system often ignored physical barriers, leading to retail outlets appearing in close proximity to schools and kindergartens. Under the new decree, local governments must establish specific boundaries based on local urban planning, ensuring that sales points remain at a sufficient distance from public spaces.
Sergey Ryabukhin, First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on Budget and Financial Markets, stated that the flexible system will prevent bad-faith market participants from exploiting formal distance rules. “The transition to a flexible system allows local authorities to set standards that reflect real-world conditions,” Ryabukhin told Parlamentskaya Gazeta. “This closes loopholes and prevents shops from opening directly in school courtyards.”
All new zoning decisions will require public discussion to ensure they meet the specific needs of local communities while upholding strict public health standards.
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