Russian Media Predicts E-cigarette Prices Will Rise 30% After September 1

Russian media predict that e-cigarette prices will rise significantly in the fall of 2023, with an expected increase of 30%.

[Breaking News] According to lenta.ru on August 22, Russian media predict that e-cigarette prices will rise significantly after September 1, 2023, with an expected increase of 30%.

The price increase is attributed to the rising exchange rates of the euro and dollar, as well as logistical difficulties. Compared to spring, the cost of e-cigarettes has already risen by 10%, as the most popular models are imported and purchased with foreign currency.

Additionally, customs officials have begun to scrutinize shipments containing nicotine products more closely. Market representatives indicate that due to tightening laws against selling products to minors, controls on e-cigarette imports have been strengthened. Many importers have had to bring in small batches of e-cigarettes due to fears of product seizures, raids, and fines.

The Russian Federal Audit Chamber (AC) has proposed imposing tariffs on the import of e-cigarettes and IQOS. Similar to the import tax on hookahs and pipes, the value will be set at 13%. Thus, this joint venture hopes to balance the tariffs on nicotine products and add an additional 4.5 billion rubles to the budget annually.

In April 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes to individuals under 18.

State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin stated that this law aims to protect the health of young people. Furthermore, starting March 1, 2024, a ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes will take effect. These restrictions will affect e-cigarettes with fruit, vegetable, sweet, and vitamin flavors. Additionally, sellers will be unable to sell e-cigarettes containing nicotine salts. These factors will all impact the sales prices of e-cigarettes.

References: [1] Russians warned of significant price increases for e-cigarettes