Russia looks to be taking a positive approach to vaping, if comments by the Russian Minister of Industry and Trade are anything to go by. Denis Manturov has indicated the country could separate vaping products from cigarettes, as far as the law and regulations are concerned.
He stated electronic cigarettes and similar systems were “safer” to use. He even suggested smokers should switch to vaping, confirming such products would be regulated differently to cigarettes in Russia. This suggests the country is wholly supportive of vaping. As Mr Manturov said, the idea is to “encourage smokers to switch from conventional tobacco to the new devices.”
A refreshing approach, and one vapers will welcome
Some countries have done their utmost to make vapers feel like criminals. Despite mounting evidence to the contrary, some countries have outlawed vaping and continue to insist it is just as bad for health as smoking.
The Russian Minister also suggested vaping products might be taxed less heavily than tobacco products. This would make them cheaper and provide an incentive for smokers to make the switch to electronic cigarettes. Smoking is very common in Russia. According to The Moscow Times, over 60% of men in the country smoke, along with nearly 22% of women. It is regularly cited as a country with one of the highest incidences of smokers in the world.
When will the changes occur?
No one is sure yet when these plans will come to fruition. However, if those in charge are serious about reducing the high rate of smoking in Russia, chances are it won’t be too long. Smokers may soon find it easier and cheaper than ever to make the switch to vaping.
What are your thoughts on this? Are you surprised by Russia’s positive stance towards vaping? Let us know in the comments below.
