Russia’s St. Petersburg Sets Up Working Group to Consider Citywide Vape Sales Ban

Jan.26
Russia’s St. Petersburg Sets Up Working Group to Consider Citywide Vape Sales Ban
Russia’s St. Petersburg legislature has formed a working group to explore tougher controls on vape trade and sales, including the option of a citywide sales ban. The group is set to convene on Jan. 26 with participation from lawmakers, civil society and law enforcement. The move comes as Russia’s federal authorities continue to debate legislation that could allow regions to impose their own restrictions on vapes.

Key Points

 

  • A working group has been created in Russia’s St. Petersburg legislature to examine tighter vape regulation.
  • The group will meet on Jan. 26 under the Budget and Finance Committee, with lawmakers, civic groups and law enforcement invited.
  • The agenda includes drafting legislative proposals on vape trade controls and assessing a full sales ban in the city.
  • The parliament speaker said two tracks are being considered: a total ban or “maximum” restrictions.
  • The initiative aligns with ongoing federal-level policy discussions in Russia on regional powers to restrict vape circulation.

 


 

2Firsts, Jan. 26, 2026

 

According to ZakS politika, St. Petersburg’s legislative assembly has established a working group under its Budget and Finance Committee to examine potential restrictions on vaping products in the city. Committee head and deputy Denis Chetyrbok said the group will meet on Jan. 26, bringing together lawmakers, public representatives and law enforcement.

 

Chetyrbok said the group will prepare proposals to amend rules governing vape trade, and will also consider the prospect of a full ban on vape sales across St. Petersburg, framing tougher measures as a priority given public health concerns.

 

Parliament speaker Alexander Belsky said two approaches are under review: a total ban or “maximum” strict restrictions, noting that the idea to create the group was raised by the St. Petersburg branch of the Народный фронт (People’s Front).

 

The report added that the city’s initiative follows broader federal-level discussions in Russia, including a draft bill that would allow regions to independently restrict vape circulation. St. Petersburg has already adopted measures tightening vape circulation, such as restricting retail sales to minors.

 

Previously, Byers also expressed support for a total ban on e-cigarettes.

 

Image source: ZakS politika.

 

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