The Russian State Duma will support a complete ban on the sale of electronic devices for consuming nicotine-containing products (vapes) if such a legislative initiative comes from the government, according to Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin. He emphasized that any such bill would be considered a priority.
Volodin highlighted the "obvious health harm from vapes," stating that their liquids contain heavy metals and that vaping produces toxic compounds, increasing the risk of serious diseases and harming bystanders through secondhand exposure. His comments align with those of Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov, who recently expressed personal support for a "total ban" on vapes, citing their targeted marketing towards youth and the ineffectiveness of current age restrictions.
This potential full prohibition follows earlier measures. In April 2023, Russia banned vape sales (including nicotine-free ones) to minors under 18 and also prohibited vape liquids with flavorings or additives designed to enhance nicotine addiction or increase product appeal. Sales were restricted to specialized stores. In February 2025, administrative fines for selling nicotine products and devices to teens were significantly increased, with criminal liability introduced for repeat offenses. Despite these measures, Volodin noted, "dishonest traders still sell liquid poison to teenagers. Therefore, only a complete ban and elimination of vapes from shelves will help protect children."
A September 2023 SuperJob poll indicated a near tripling in the share of nicotine-dependent Russians using vapes in recent years, with 21% exclusively using e-cigarettes and 16% using both vapes and traditional cigarettes, up from 8% and 12% respectively in 2019.
