E-cigarettes in pharmacies? Russian consumer group calls for new rules

Nov.01.2024
E-cigarettes in pharmacies? Russian consumer group calls for new rules
Russian group proposes e-cigarettes as prescription-only, sold exclusively in pharmacies to strengthen regulation.

The Consumers Union of Russia has proposed that e-cigarettes be classified as prescription products and sold exclusively in pharmacies, VM.RU reported on November 1. The proposal was submitted to Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

 

The alliance stated that e-cigarettes and related devices should be treated like medications, requiring a doctor’s prescription for purchase. Currently, around 4.5 million people in Russia use e-cigarettes to satisfy nicotine cravings.

 

Data from Russia’s National Statistics Bureau shows that the smoking rate dropped from 41% in 2009 to 30% in 2023. However, addiction issues remain, particularly concerning e-cigarettes.

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

PMI Launches VEEV E-Cigarette in South Africa, Expanding Access to Smoke-Free Alternatives
PMI Launches VEEV E-Cigarette in South Africa, Expanding Access to Smoke-Free Alternatives
Philip Morris International's South Africa branch launches e-cigarette product Veev, making South Africa one of 20 countries with PMI's smoke-free products.
Oct.13 by 2FIRSTS.ai
2Firsts Product Observation (8.25-8.29): UK Market Focuses on Pod Innovation, Multiple Brands Compete for Differentiation
2Firsts Product Observation (8.25-8.29): UK Market Focuses on Pod Innovation, Multiple Brands Compete for Differentiation
Recently, the UK e-cigarette market has displayed two distinct trends. First, the number of new product releases has slowed, with a notable decline in MHRA approvals. Second, innovation in product differentiation has accelerated, as seen with new launches from VOZOL and SKE. Additionally, ELFBAR has introduced limited-edition products, and OXBAR has focused on functional innovations, both contributing to a growing emphasis on differentiation.
Sep.01 by 2FIRSTS.ai
The U.S. Department of Justice and FDA seized 2.1 million e-cigarettes and 12 distributors and retailers were sued
The U.S. Department of Justice and FDA seized 2.1 million e-cigarettes and 12 distributors and retailers were sued
Recently, the U.S. Department of Justice and the FDA announced a joint crackdown on illegal e-cigarettes, seizing over 2.1 million unauthorized e-cigarette products from five distributors and six retailers in seven states. The companies involved had previously received warnings from the FDA but continued to sell products without market approval. This operation was jointly carried out by multiple government departments, and civil injunction lawsuits have been filed against 12 related companies an
Sep.30 by 2FIRSTS.ai
From InterTabac: Hong Kong Nanyang Brothers Tobacco’s Debut — A Century-Old Tobacco Brand Signals a Pivot to Next-Generation Products
From InterTabac: Hong Kong Nanyang Brothers Tobacco’s Debut — A Century-Old Tobacco Brand Signals a Pivot to Next-Generation Products
On the world map of the tobacco industry, the InterTabac trade fair in Dortmund is undoubtedly one of the most influential stages of the year. Every September, it serves not only as a showcase for products but also as a barometer for industry trends. In 2025, this stage welcomed a particularly notable presence — Hong Kong Nanyang Brothers Tobacco, a company with over a century of history.
Sep.18
DARE Warns Malaysia: Vaping Bans Will Expand Illicit Market; Strengthen Enforcement Within Existing Framework
DARE Warns Malaysia: Vaping Bans Will Expand Illicit Market; Strengthen Enforcement Within Existing Framework
Malaysia’s policy think tank Datametrics Research and Information Sdn Bhd (DARE) cautions that state- or nationwide bans on e-cigarettes would fuel the illicit market, weaken investor confidence, reduce tax revenues, and cost jobs. DARE argues that authorities should prioritize consistent enforcement under existing laws rather than impose new prohibitions.
Sep.28 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Turkish police mount multi-agency raids, seize 2,400 e-cigarette devices
Turkish police mount multi-agency raids, seize 2,400 e-cigarette devices
To protect youths ahead of the new school year, police in İzmir carried out a large-scale crackdown on smuggled tobacco and e-cigarettes with multiple agencies. Officers seized 70,305 cigars, 21,650 packs of cigarettes, and 2,420 e-cigarette devices. Judicial proceedings have been opened against 47 suspects.
Sep.05 by 2FIRSTS.ai