Russia is preparing to completely ban electronic cigarettes, both with and without nicotine. The proposal, supported by the Ministry of Health, aims to counter the rise of vaping among young people and protect public health.
Since 2023, Russia has progressively tightened restrictions on the use and sale of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. As of June 1, 2023, online sales of e-cigarettes have been prohibited, along with their display in physical retail outlets. Furthermore, starting from March 2024, the production, storage, import, and export of vaping products, whether they contain nicotine or not, require a specific license, and certain e-liquid flavors may be banned.
On May 31, 2024, a bill was submitted to the State Duma proposing a total ban on the retail sale of all electronic cigarettes, regardless of nicotine content. The proposal is driven by a significant increase in e-cigarette use among Russian adolescents, with a tenfold rise between 2011 and 2023. In particular, flavored disposable devices are considered especially appealing to minors.

Previous regulations had already prohibited the sale of e-cigarettes to minors and the addition of flavors to vaping products. However, the widespread use among young people and the easy accessibility of these devices have led authorities to consider even stricter measures. In December 2023, a law was proposed introducing penalties of up to seven years in prison for the smuggling of vaping products, in an effort to combat the black market and protect public health.
These initiatives reflect Russia’s strict approach to controlling tobacco and vaping products, with the goal of reducing their spread among young people and preventing potential health risks.
On February 19, 2025, the State Duma began reviewing the bill aimed at completely banning the production, sale, and import of vaping devices and liquids, whether they contain nicotine or not. The proposal has gained the unanimous support of all political factions and is set to be discussed during the spring 2025 session. If approved, the new law could enter into force by the end of 2025, bringing an end to the trade and distribution of these products across the entire country.