Russia raises tariffs on strong alcohol from unfriendly countries to 35%

New tariffs on strong alcohol

The Russian government has raised import tariffs on strong alcohol from unfriendly countries: they now stand at 35%, but no less than €5 per liter. Interfax reports this, citing a government decision; the outlet Gazeta.Ru retells the agency's report. The measure covers imports of spirit-based tinctures, whiskey, rum, gin, liqueurs, non-denatured ethyl alcohol and other alcoholic beverages, and will remain in effect until December 31, 2027.

How the measure differs from previous restrictions

The tariff increase on strong alcohol is a continuation of a policy the government began earlier: in August 2024 elevated customs tariffs were already imposed on imports of flowers and alcohol from unfriendly countries, with the rate on wines and vermouths raised from 20% to 25%, but no less than $2 per liter. The new measure is noticeably tougher: the minimum tariff of €5 per liter applies to strong drinks, which were not previously included in this list at the elevated rate. Back in 2024, the Wine Importers Association (AVVR) considered the adopted measures insufficient and proposed introducing a 200% tariff on wine from NATO countries — the rate now introduced for strong alcohol is significantly lower than that proposal.

Assessments of the effect

Stellar Group Commercial Director Alexander Grevtsov believes that raising the tariff to €5 per liter will not significantly affect the overall sales volume of foreign alcohol. In his assessment, the government initiative will help replenish Russia's budget and support domestic producers. There is no data yet in publications on exactly how shelf prices and import volumes will change once the measure takes effect.