Far East Regions Intensify Efforts to Restrict Alcohol Sales Amid Rising Abuse Concerns

Governors from at least four regions in Russia’s Far East revealed their intentions on Thursday to restrict alcohol sales and enhance measures against alcohol consumption, joining a growing number of areas where local authorities are taking stricter actions to limit alcohol use.

The discussed measures, which took place during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, entail increasing the required distance between liquor shops and residential areas, decreasing the number of outlets, and cracking down on illegal sales in establishments operating from residential properties.

Aysen Nikolayev, the leader of the extensive Sakha (Yakutia) republic, expressed concerns over the inadequate enforcement of current regulations, labeling it as Russia’s «most significant issue.»

«We create excellent legislation, but unfortunately, the implementation often falls short,” Nikolayev stated to RBC news outlet. “Our primary goal now is to systematically eliminate all illegal cafes or so-called 24-hour catering facilities selling alcohol in residential complexes.”

Governors from the Amur and Magadan regions both underscored the necessity of distancing alcohol availability from “within walking distance” of homes. Amur Governor Vasily Orlov mentioned that his administration is closely monitoring the effectiveness of initiatives in other areas where limits on the proximity of liquor stores to residential zones and community facilities such as schools and hospitals have been established.

In the remote Kamchatka region, known for its scenic landscapes and volcanoes, Governor Vladimir Solodov announced plans to prohibit alcohol sales in establishments that have been repurposed from residential properties.

These actions are part of a more robust campaign already in motion in regions like northwestern Russia’s Vologda and St. Petersburg, targeting alcohol consumption.

In Vologda, authorities have limited alcohol sales during weekdays to just two hours a day. Its governor, who refers to his struggle as combating “alcohol terrorism,” noted that more than half of the region’s 610 liquor stores have had to close since January.

Conversely, St. Petersburg and the adjacent Leningrad region instituted new restrictions effective September 1, banning alcohol sales in dining establishments and stores located within apartment complexes between the hours of 10 p.m. and 11 a.m.

While national legislation already prohibits sales from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m., Russian regions have the authority to impose even stricter regulations.