Government imposes 35% tariff on dietary supplements from «unfriendly countries»

The Russian government has imposed a 35% duty on imports of dietary supplements from “unfriendly countries” that are taking steps “that violate the economic interests of the Russian Federation”; the decree, signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, was published on September 25, The Moscow Times reports.

The measure will take effect on October 2 and will remain in force until the end of next year. It does not apply to shipments from Slovakia and Hungary.

The increased tariff applies to dietary supplements in consumer packaging with identification labeling. This refers, in particular, to vitamin complexes, mineral supplements, and other similar products.

In 2023, the National Union for Consumer Rights Protection (NSZPP) proposed either completely banning imports of such products from unfriendly countries or raising the duty to 220%, which would in effect amount to an import ban.

Domestic manufacturers then insisted on a 50–70% duty, but the government did not support these initiatives. The NSZPP explained the restriction by the growth of the gray and black markets for dietary supplements, while the Russian Consumers’ Union said that tightening regulation would not solve the counterfeit problem and would lead to higher prices for legal products.

Sources

• Material: ru.themoscowtimes.com