Russia targets alcohol gifting with hefty fines in new policy
Russia is considering imposing fines for giving alcohol as a gift to reduce its consumption. According to The Moscow Times, the new regulations propose fines of up to 100,000 roubles (approximately £820) for such actions.
Russian authorities are taking further steps to limit excessive alcohol consumption. In response to increasing alcohol sales, Moscow plans to introduce fines for giving alcohol as a gift.
According to the new regulations, private individuals can be fined 5,000 roubles (approximately £41), while officials face fines from 35,000 to 50,000 roubles (approximately £290-£410), and companies up to 100,000 roubles (approximately £820). This initiative aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and reduce alcohol consumption in the country.
Andrey Svintsov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma, emphasises that the bill aims to make citizens aware that alcohol is a harmful substance. As reported by "The Moscow Times," the authorities propose giving gifts that promote physical activity, like gym memberships or theatre tickets, instead of alcohol.
Russia restricts alcohol consumption
The Russian government has approved a new concept to reduce alcohol consumption by 2030. As part of this plan, discounts on alcohol will be prohibited and its display in stores will be restricted.
Beginning 1 January 2025, minimum retail prices for alcoholic beverages, including vodka and brandy, will also increase. This is another initiative by Andrey Svintsov regarding alcohol. He previously proposed a ban on the sale of alcohol without special markings in state institutions.
As reported by "The Moscow Times," Russian authorities continue to introduce increasingly stringent regulations aimed at reducing consumption. Svintsov also suggested that alcohol should be sold exclusively in specialised outlets accessible only to adults.
