state of smoking in Russia

This page was last edited on: June 29, 2022 at 1:30pm

In 2019, 29.7% or 34.9 million Russian adults aged fifteen and above smoked cigarettes (49% or 26 million men, and 14% or 9 million women).
Tobacco use was reported to be higher among men than women.
The overall number of smokers has reduced over the past two decades. The number of male smokers reduced by 14.8% from 30.5 million in 1990 to 26 million in 2019. In contrast, the number of women smoking increased by 30% from 6.9 million in 1990 to 9 million in 2019 (Figure 1).

In 2019, tobacco-attributable deaths due to three causes (ischemic heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer) were the top three leading causes of mortality in the Russian Federation.
The tobacco-attributable health burden (death and disability combined) was 9 million DALYs in 2019, 19.3% lower than 11.1 million DALYs the year Russia ratified FCTC in 2008.
In 2019, tobacco use claimed 317,000 lives in Russia, 17% lower than 381,000 lives in 2008.

Russia signed the WHO Framework Convention of Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in 2008. Since then, it has adopted comprehensive tobacco control legislation which was implemented in 2013 and became effective in in 2014. Cigarette demand for the 15+ age population fell by 51% from 162 packs to 79 packs per year since the country adopted the WHO FCTC.
Since then, Russia restricts smoking in public places, bans all forms of tobacco advertising and promotions, restricts sale of tobacco products in certain areas (e.g., sport facilities, healthcare facilities, near educational facilities), and has implemented health warnings covering at least 50% in the front and back of packages.
The law was also amended to regulate e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. These products are allowed but regulated. Specifically, it restricts the use of e-cigarettes and HTPs in public places, includes limits on nicotine concentrations, and limits sale to those above 18.
In 2022, the minimum excise tax per pack of 20 cigarettes was Rub 66.6. In 2020, the excise tax share on retail price for domestic and foreign brands was 52% and 36% respectively.

Russia has never been a producer of tobacco leaves.

*As research findings become available that are inclusive of additional gender identities, the Foundation will update the information presented.